Statistics show that about 351,000 children below the age of 18 years have various challenges with learning. Some kids have been clinically diagnosed with learning disabilities, making it easier for parents to know what they’re dealing with. However, the dynamics change sharply for kids who struggle with academics and don’t have an official reason for their issues. Some are dismissed and often labelled as naughty or difficult, and unless parents pay close attention, they might not know of their child struggling in school. Here are some signs to look out for.
1. A gradual or sudden change in attitude about school
This is one of the telltale signs that something is amiss with your child’s education. It is even more telling when they weren’t like that before. The sudden indifference about school could result from boredom or their inability to understand the subjects taught. Ultimately, this leads to them having low self-esteem. This is particularly crucial when they think their friends are probably smarter than them. Your child’s sudden change in attitude about school is a sign you do not want to sweep under the carpet.
As a parent with a direct supervisory role over your children, it is worth noting that these young ones often internalise their emotions. When they do, they isolate, withdraw, or do not find anything interesting anymore. According to child educators, once you notice this sudden or gradual change, it is advisable to dig deeper to find the cause. Experts also advise against giving that child a lot more pressure to change their attitude about school as you may aggravate an already bad situation. Instead, try to seek help from child counselling services. Your child’s school may have a unit like that to provide the needed guidance. If they don’t, there are companies that offer such services.
2. Difficulty in completing specific homework subjects
At a certain age, usually from age seven and beyond, most children without a clinical learning disability can complete homework with ease. They may only come to you for help if a question or school project seems too difficult to comprehend. However, research has shown that kids who struggle in school and individual subjects exhibit specific behaviours. For example, they may leave their homework unattended until the next day. Other times, they may need help with each homework question. In some instances, you may receive an invitation from the class teacher to discuss your child’s frequently uncompleted work. This is a sign that your child is struggling.
According to research conducted in schools across the UK, many children of school-going age struggle with Maths. A report on the digest.bps.org.uk website showed that dyscalculia (fear of Math) is more prevalent among kids. Fortunately, there is help, and you won’t need to panic. Indeed, learning maths becomes a joy when the child understands the fundamentals of the subject. The same technique can be applied to all other subjects.
3. Constantly getting worrying feedback from teachers
First of all, education is teamwork, and there’s no argument about that. Therefore, your child’s teacher(s) may want to have some periodic discussions with you. However, when feedback is consistently negative, you may want to take immediate action. Sometimes, parents have no idea about their children’s academic performance until they receive constant calls from the school. The truth is, teachers spend a significant amount of time with your children in school. Therefore, they catch on to these details even before their parents will. If this is your case, you may want to share strategies with these experienced teachers to help your young ones.
Thankfully, it’s not all doom and gloom when your child is struggling in school. Indeed, many children do, but the secret lies in how you help them turn things around.
*This is a collaborative post