MOTIVATION!

3 Easy Steps; When To Suspect Something Is Going On At School

Has your child, or a child you've worked with ever viewed school in a negative way? If so, what was your reaction, and at what point did you suspect that something was wrong? In today's blog, I'll briefly explain why children may feel negative about school and how parents can step in when they suspect something is going on, as well as how caregivers can help in the process.

Children at some point in time may utter "I hate going to school!" For many parents, their child may feel this way from the low grades they receive in class, the workload in completing homework and assignments, the feeling of being disorganized and overwhelmed, or their child just has a difficult time understanding what is being taught in the classroom. Some experiences can be far different, and go beyond what is being taught within the curriculum or from your child's way of learning. Many children in Ontario encounter barriers in the education system, some of which include bullying from peers, the pressure to conform by teachers, countless times spent in the principal's office, and the list goes on. Either way, all these experiences are valid and should be handled seriously.

Furthermore, parents can often be a contributing factor to the negativity that their child feels towards school by having high expectations that their child cannot meet, and by placing blame on them for the obstacles they face at school.

So what can you do as a parent or caregiver when you witness a child expressing damaging thoughts about school?

Here's what you can do:

Step 1: Start a dialogue with the child about their experiences, this will give them an opportunity to voice their concerns, and express their frustration while showing them that you care and are willing to support them (for caregivers, it's important to ask the child for their consent before offering your support).

Step 2: Examine the causes related to the child's negative perception of school and look at ways you can assist in resolving them. For example, brainstorming can be useful in supporting the child, giving them choice on how they can handle their situation. Both parents, and caregivers can use the child's interests to help them express their frustration i.e. fine motor activities such as drawing or outdoor gross motor activities, like playing sports, etc.

Step 3: Parents, show your support and be more understanding, rather than make assumptions about your child's negative feelings towards school. As for caregivers, you can discuss your concerns and observations with parents while reassuring them on their child's dissimilar experiences when in your care.

It's crucial to address issues that prevent children from forming a positive perception of their learning environment. As a parent and educator, I strongly believe that when children feel positive and optimistic about school they have the opportunity to succeed and to reach their full potential.

I hope you enjoyed today's Blog! If you would like to see more blogs and felt this was helpful, please visit https://www.challengingtheoutcome.com/blog and leave a comment.

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