For some kids, school is an opportunity to truly excel, make lasting friendships, learn more about themselves, and forge a path towards their future. Then there are the kids who struggle each and every day, who have to fight just to get a passing grade, and see school more as something they have to do rather than want to do. Not doing well in school can lead to low self-esteem, stress and anxiety, anger and acting out. It can even affect the friendships they have at school and their relationships at home.
If your child has been struggling at school with their grades and making friends, there are ways that you can step in and help. You may find yourself shocked at just how much things can turn around for them.
Speak to Their Teacher
A great place to start is to schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher to discuss any issues or problems. This could be with their school work, their ability to learn and comprehend the material, bullying, a lack of focus, etc. It may also be helpful to speak to the principal and guidance counsellor if they are able to shed more light on the situation.
Hire a Tutor
If your child is truly struggling to keep up with the school work, and just can’t seem to understand the material, it may also be necessary to hire a personal tutor. Even just once or twice a week can make a massive difference for your child, and it may not even need to be a long-term solution.
Set Up a Workspace in the Home
There is also the logistics of being able to do their homework and studies at home. They will need a dedicated area that is comfortable, allows them to spread out, and is free of distractions. Sitting in front of the TV with their textbook balancing on their lap is not an ideal set-up.
Learn How to Effectively Motivate Your Kids
Part of your job as a parent is to be your child’s own cheer squad, motivating them and encouraging them to keep trying and to do their best. At times, parents can lose sight of this, or may not even know how to best motivate their child. For some tips on how to motivate your child to do better in school, be sure to check out Daniel Wong’s blog. You’ll find tips and advice on how to motivate them without coming across annoying and how to give your children control over their own decisions and actions. You can also learn how to teach your child about organization and planning, developing a schedule that everyone can follow, and more.
Keep the Lines of Communication Open
Your child also needs to know that you are here for them at all times, and you’re there to listen. Keeping the lines of communication open, especially in the teenage years, is imperative. It keeps parents in the loop, it helps kids to feel more stable and secure, and it allows everyone to come up with an action plan if there are problems.
Watch Things Turn Around
By following these tips, there is no doubt that you’ll be able to watch things turn around for your child, and see them become much happier because of it.