How Is Your Child Feeling About School?

 In a few weeks, many children will be going back to school.  Stress and anxiety for many children will begin to grow and school refusal will become a part of the daily routine and behavior exhibited.  Parents can begin to take positive steps now to prevent school anxiety, school phobia or school refusal.

 Why Some Children Hate School

• The child has no friends.
• The child feels that he or she does not fit in.
• The child is being teased or bullied.
• The child finds it difficult to socialize.
• The child is not experiencing success in academic classes.
• The child is bored.
• The child has a medical condition such as anxiety or depression.
• The child does not feel connected to at least one school staff member.
• The child’s parent(s) seldom say positive things about school.

What Parents Can Do To Reduce School Anxiety?

Talk with your child.  Really listen!  Ask your child to name the best parts of their day and the worst parts.  Ask your child to: name some friends he or she eats lunch with, who their favorite teacher is, who teases, who praises.  Be objective and caring.  Try to avoid putting words in your child’s mouth.

Set up a meeting with your child’s teacher, school counselor or school social worker.  Discuss: Grades, behavior, friends, medical concerns and your child’s school history.  Keep the meeting positive!  Seek advice and help.  Avoid putting the teachers on the defense.

Is your child in middle school or junior high?  These are typically difficult years in school for many children.  Girls are often more verbal and begin to play “odd girl out” game.  Boys are generally more physical and grab, pull and laugh at each other.  Begin to recognize developmental stages as your child goes progresses through school.  The school counselor or school psychologist will help you with more information.

Let your medical doctor know your child’s concerns.  During your child yearly physical exams, let your family doctor or pediatrician know that your child “hates school.”  Your doctor may provide more helpful solutions.