How to help my son to "buckle down" in school.

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ajvogel15 asks:

I am trying to get my 8 yr old son to start to work harder in school. He is having major issues in class paying attention, and understanding the work they are doing. I have been trying to practice with him at home as much as possible.
I am starting to get really worried since he is not up to his grade level and has not been since 1st grade. Yet the teachers still pass him on to the next grade. I am not sure the why they would do so when i am told at parent teacher meetings that he is not up to par and would likely be held back.
I am just really concerned for him and want to help him, but not make it into a punishment to work harder by forcing him to sit at the table for hour on end. Is there a better way to help him, and make it seem less a chore?

In Topics: Learning issues and special needs, Motivation and achievement at school

> 60 days ago

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Expert

Louiseasl

Feb 20, 2011

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What the Expert Says:

Hello and thank you for writing to JustAsk!

I can only imagine how frustrating this school year has been for both your child and your family. Please know that a child who is experiencing significant educational problems is most likely not "faking it". Therefore, I would suggest that you write a formal request for the special education team to convene and determine if your child may have a learning disorder which is inhibiting his ability to achieve academic success in line with his age and grade peers.

Also, please reassure your child that you are on his "team". Children can feel very upset when they know that they are not working at the same level of their grade peers. Some even give up because they feel like they constantly hit a "brick wall" despite their best efforts. If they know that their parents are their for support and will get help, then that can mean a lot to a child. Different learning techniques may be the key to academic success.

To read more about learning challenges these websites may be helpful:

http://www.ldanatl.org
http://www.nasponline.org
http://www.eparent.com

Good luck to all!

Louise Sattler, NCSP
Nationally Certified School Psychologist

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graham writes:

Can you talk to his teacher and ask them how you can help them to focus in school? If you do and you are already doing it, tell the teacher this, and ask for further advice.

Sometimes changing your child's schedule can help with attention because there are many different reasons for a child not being able to complete their work or focusing. You could try changing the time your child does their homework, he may be able to focus better at certain times of the day, or after eating, etc.

Some things to check:
- Is your child sleeping well? Sometimes if they are tired it can effect attention.
- Is your child having trouble with friendships at school? Addressing any social situations in the classroom can help your child feel more comfortable and able to focus.
- Is your child doing lots of after school activities? This could make them tired.
- Make sure your child has breakfast, it can help with attention as well.

Good luck, hang in there.

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