No child likes going to school, but there’s a difference between looking forward to the weekend and having a more serious problem. It might be academic. It might be social. It might even be medical.
NOTE: It’s important to keep in mind that difficulties with school are not always indicators of larger issues, but nevertheless can be a result of such conditions as attention deficit hyperactive disorder or autism spectrum disorder. If you think your child might be struggling with such a condition, it’s important to consult a doctor in order to determine treatment options, including medication or ABA therapy in Maryland.
Having said that, here are four things to keep an eye out for if you’re concerned about how your child is doing in school.
Low Grades
The most obvious sign that a child is suffering in school comes in the form of low grades. Some parents assume that low grades are merely the result of a child not taking their schoolwork seriously, but it more likely is a result of them struggling with the material.
Of course, the occasional low grade is normal, but when it becomes an ongoing pattern, that makes it cause for concern. Don’t let your child get left behind; consider speaking with their teachers and/or arranging for them to receive additional tutoring.
Change in Attitude
When having trouble at school, many children are reluctant to discuss the matter, either because they find it personally upsetting or because they believe their loved ones will be upset with them if they find out.
Sometimes, this reluctance to talk about school difficulties can become a wholesale refusal to talk about school at all. Worse, a child might begin to act out or develop depression due to their frustrations and bottled-up emotions. Encouraging them to share their feelings is far from easy, but it is necessary.
Problems Sleeping & Eating
Similarly, if you notice that your child is suddenly having problems sleeping and/or eating, this might be a result of problems at school. Sleeping and eating disruptions are usually caused by stress and, while other culprits may be to blame, school is a very common source of anxiety.
Many children tie a portion of their self-worth to their performance and school and think that their family will be disappointed in them if their grades falter. Additionally, a child may worry about their future. Either way, reassuring your child that they are loved and supported can go a long way to relieving their stress.
