A struggling learner or student won’t say, “I have a problem with learning and need help.” Many parents and teachers fail to notice their child’s struggles until they consistently see their poor grades in school. Some might have noticed changes in your children’s attitude towards learning but weren’t sure why. Right? So, how do we get recognized before things go wrong in our kids’ learning?
Nothing to worry about anymore! We’re here to help. Children and teens usually don’t express their feelings about school and academics. So, it’s hard for us to help them. But, if you’re concerned about your child’s education and career, you should know them. How? Keep an eye on your child and look for signs of trouble. Taking this step will set you on the right path.
What are the signs of a struggling student? Below are warning signs of struggling students and how to help them. Read the blog, know the signs, and help your child.
Hang on. Before that, it’s important to know why your student is struggling.
Why do students struggle?
Children struggle for many reasons. This includes social challenges, academic performance, bullying, peer relationships, learning disorders, mental stress, physical health issues, and more. Finding it isn’t easy. But, if you are a caring parent or teacher, you should.
Warning signs of a Struggling student
1. Stress
When students struggle in school, the stress and anxiety follow them home. You can notice their behavioral changes and physical complaints. Some may refuse to go to school or refuse to learn.
2. Refuse to discuss school things
Hey, kiddo, how was your day at school today?
Does your child don’t share their moments at school with you? They might have had a bad day or quarreled with their friends. But, it is a warning signal for you that something is not right at their school, especially if they are open-minded.
Though you respect your kids’ boundaries, speaking with them is important. Get to know what happened at school. Try to get involved in your kids’ school life and stay updated.
3. Changes in Attitude towards school
A school is usually a favorite place for many kids. If your kid is one, then it’s cool. In contrast, it should be noticed if they were positive earlier and became annoyed about the school. I bet they don’t love things that are happening around your child. That might be the reason they hate going to school.
4. Truancy
Some students arrive late to classes or don’t come to school at all. Parents and teachers may believe that they are the ones who cause trouble. In reality, they might be anxious or depressed about school. Additionally, students with anxiety may experience physical symptoms like nausea, headaches, etc., causing them to miss classes.
5. Spends their time alone
Some kids prefer not to spend their time at school with their friends. Most kids, however, prefer spending time with their families. If your kid is one of those but suddenly misses spending time with you, then you should be aware. They may prefer eating alone or sleeping alone. Your child should be given extra attention if you find such things in them.
6. Take more time on Homeworks than usual
Students don’t miss out on playing with friends after returning from school. But, if they miss out on playing and spend more time completing homework, keep an eye on them. Every teacher has homework policies. It may vary from teacher to teacher. But, they usually follow their policy. Some may give more homework while others limit the homework to kids. Be familiar with their teacher’s homework policy.
Giving more homework may burden them and ruin their playtime. However, some kids might have trouble completing their homework due to a few doubts. At school, their teachers can assist them with the issue. But at home, as parents, you need to be responsible for helping your child with homework.
7. Listen to teachers
Parents sometimes dismiss what teachers say about their children. Remember, a teacher is responsible for the entire class, and if they report specifically about your child, you should consider it. Your child’s teacher is the best person to explain their change to you. This is because it provides you with a way to reach out to your child. Don’t take it personally. It’s just for the sake of your child.
8. Poor Grades
It is an obvious sign that a child is struggling. It may not be a big deal if your child receives a poor grade occasionally. It’s a red flag when the report card shows a pattern of poor grades.
9. Misbehaves at school
Misbehaving is a way for kids to grab others’ attention towards them. Also, it’s their way to hide their struggles from others. So, if they misbehave at school, speak with them and know what is troubling your child.
Knowing the signs alone is not enough. Please get to know how to help them.
How can you help them?
No matter how your child struggles with schoolwork or learning, you must understand them. Here are some tips to help you achieve that.
1. Be a good listener
Even though you are busy with your schedules, you have more responsibilities as parents. Take your time and talk to your children. Get to know what they are experiencing in their lives by letting them speak. If you build an emotional bond with them, they will feel safer and reach out to you for help if they need it.
2. Seek professional help
You should seek professional help for your child if he or she is struggling to learn. Certain accommodations can be provided to your child so that they can get good grades.
3. Multisensory instruction
In this way, kids can link what they see, hear, and feel. A student who learns using their senses is more likely to remember the material than one who reads. Each child is different, so you have to be creative.
Takeaway
Supporting and encouraging your struggling child makes a huge difference and helps them get back on track. Learning about your child is the first step in helping them before things worsen. The best thing you can do for your child is intervening if they are struggling and help them get back on track!
