Help Your Child Climb from Struggling to Successful in School

What to do and not do when your child is struggling in school

No child struggles the same as another.

Sometimes a child may have trouble developing friendships or communicating with his or her peers. Other times, school struggles can manifest as bad grades, defiant attitudes toward certain work, or low self-esteem. These signs are just a few of many. Does your child display any of these?

It’s all too easy for us to get caught up in the formalities of dealing with problems. We are often quick to blame certain aspects, while ignoring our children as a whole. That’s why this brief, yet powerful list of actions to not do, and what to do instead, has been put together for YOU. So that YOU can make the BEST possible choices for your child.

Start with the following:

Get to the root of the issue.

Don’t: make assumptions.

Do: speak with your child and his or her teachers directly. This includes both questioning and sharing this information with any tutors or family members involved in your child’s life. When you know exactly where a problem is coming from, you can work collaboratively to find a solution.

Engage in insightful dialogue.

Don’t: ask probing questions like, “How was your day?”

Do: ask specific questions your child will feel comfortable asking. After school is not a time for an annoying interrogation. Be engaged and light-hearted!

Turn down the temperature!

Don't: let your temper rise.

Do: Remain calm and be fun. Talking about school and homework can become heated quickly if you let it! Begin by praising what your child is doing well immediately and be sure to discuss schoolwork with an open mind. This can also mean involving a third party such as a private teacher or counselor.

An outsider’s perspective can really help children to open up. Often times, this is because children know that this person will have different expectations and viewpoints than his or her parents. It has nothing to do with you, as much as it has to do with them simply working with someone outside of their inner circle. This is comforting to their young egos and will allow for growth that may not be achieved utilizing the same routines and methods as always.

Above all, know that we are here for you in your corner.

The entire Whole Child Learning community is here to support you. Keep pressing on and advocating for your child. Most children struggle with something in their formative years. It’s up to us to help them. You’ve got this!

Tell me in the comments what has been helping your child the most...or if you are still figuring it out, let us know that, too! Our insights will help each other!