Some children don’t like school because they don’t enjoy it or don’t want to do the work.
However, for many children who don’t like school, this isn’t the case.
When I first moved to Canada, I hated being in school. The kids bullied me because I was so different. It wasn’t a safe place for me. The teachers knew but didn’t do anything and were a part of the problem. No one helped me until one day, I’d had enough and I made some drastic changes.
Children who have learning needs or who seem different may also hate being in school, depending on the circumstances.
I don’t want another child to hate being in school like I did, so this week’s article is about four ways to help a child who doesn’t like school.
Actionable Steps:
#1. Inquire
Talk to your child about what’s bothering them. Ask them why they don’t like school?
Instead of telling them to “get over it” or to “suck it up,” show them that you are genuinely listening to them because what they’re going through matters to you. Let them know what you understand the situation and that you will do your best to help them.
#2. Document
Talk to their teacher and assess the situation. Ask what’s being done to help your child and how you can best support them as well. Make sure to implement the changes and document what you notice so that you and the teacher can assess if progress is being made or if changes need to occur.
You can also use this documentation for if you need to advocate for your child with administration if you aren’t being heard. Before going above your teacher’s head though, remember that this process will take time. You won’t see changes overnight, so be patient and work together.
If you’re a teacher, document as well. Keep your administration in the loop if it’s needed and keep in touch with the parents so that they know that you are doing your best to work with them and their child.
#3. Focus on Interests
Look at what your child is interested in and how they learn best. Is it possible to integrate it into the curriculum? If so, do it as it will help your child feel like they are being heard and valued. It will help them feel connected to you and your classroom or home.
#4. Be Social
Who is in your child’s friendship circle? Help them form and maintain deeper friendships. They don’t need to have a lot of friends but if they have a few close friends, they will have others that they can turn to and engage with. This will allow them feel a sense of belonging instead of isolation, which will help them enjoy their time in school more.
Recap:
Let’s recap really quickly. Today, we looked at the following:
- The importance of helping kids who don’t enjoy being in school.
- Four ways to help a child who doesn’t like school: inquire, document, focus on interests, and be social.
Free Resources:
The following is FREE. It will show you how to create the space. These resources can be found in my FREE RESOURCE LIBRARY.
Disclaimer: I’m a teacher and a parent. I’m not a medical professional, so please don’t take this as medical advice. The advice that I provide in my videos and online are strategies that I have used in my own class or at home that have worked beautifully.
