While school is a wonderful place to learn, grow, socialise, and make lifelong memories, it is also where children face many difficulties. Some of the challenges that schools present affect children emotionally and physically, as well as their academic success. From the pressure of keeping their grades up to being harassed by bullies, there are many obstacles children face in school, leading them to feel stressed, anxious, and confused. Today, we are exploring some of the common challenges in schools that children may experience and how parents can help them.
The Pressure to Perform Academically
From young children in elementary to college students, more people are feeling stressed about achieving good grades. The stress young children experience may stem from their competitive nature or the pressure their teachers and families put on them to perform well on standardised tests.
To help your child get past this obstacle, you can remind them that mistakes are life lessons and you are proud of their efforts. You can also remind them that excellent grades do not define their self-worth. Offer encouraging words to help them feel motivated, provide a supportive environment free from judgement when discussing their academic problems, set realistic expectations, and offer your help.
Dealing with bullying
Bullies at school may be the worst challenge your child can face in school. Bullies use verbal, physical, or social bullying to break other children who they find to be weaker than they are. Bullies not only target the weak; they also mainly target others due to their differences, such as their appearance, race, or academic performance. This causes significant distress and can leave a lasting impact on your child’s self-esteem and mental health.
While it is important for your child to know kindness and respect, you should also teach your child to properly defend themselves and remind them they are never alone. You can speak to the teachers and school counsellors about your concerns and build a close work relationship so that they can help you observe and address the situation effectively.
Homesickness or separation anxiety
Starting school is not easy for younger children. They may feel homesick and separation anxiety from you leaving them in an unfamiliar place with so many strange faces. Some children are excited to go to school, and they easily adjust, but many other children struggle to cope with this in the beginning.
Instead of rushing to get them to go to class so you can leave, it is best to show them that you understand their concerns. You can practice empathising when they are emotional and offer reassuring words that would put their minds at ease. Eventually, they will be happy in the new environment you have left them in, as they realise they are indeed safe and not alone.
Struggling with Self-Esteem
Children often compare themselves to their peers, leading them to have low self-esteem. Students who compare grades, appearance, or social status struggle to feel confident. Since this is typical in schools, many children end up feeling insecure after starting school, during the transition from elementary to middle school.
You can help your child maintain self-confidence by encouraging them to focus on their strengths instead of fixating on their weaknesses and flaws. You can remind them of their uniqueness and avoid comparing them to other children. When they make mistakes, remind them that everyone makes mistakes and praise their efforts.
Falling Behind in Class
Everyone learns at a different pace, so some children find it hard to keep up with the pace of the rest of the students. This may also affect their self-esteem, as they will compare themselves to others in the class. They may also become angry and throw tantrums.
You can assist your child by helping them with their lessons, getting a tutor, and regularly checking on your child’s academic progress. You can help them create engaging notes, and study routines, as well as seek out after-school programs that can help your child.
