A Conversation About Supporting a Child Who Hates school

Hello, hello, hello!

How are you feeling this week?
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What have been your biggest wins?

What hasn't gone so well? What lessons have you taken away from these experiences? Are you ready to let them go now?

This week, we wanted to explore how to support a child you dislikes school.

If your child is expressing a dislike for school, it can be stressful and worrying for both of you. It's important to remember that you're not alone, and many children go through phases where they struggle to enjoy school. With the right approach and support, you can help your child develop a more positive outlook. 🙌
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Here are the first 3 of 6 HappiMe top tips to support you:

​1. Listen and Validate Their Feelings

The first step is to listen carefully to what your child is saying about school. Avoid dismissing their feelings with phrases like, "You'll get over it," or "Everyone feels that way." Instead, validate their emotions by acknowledging their frustration or sadness. This approach helps your child feel heard and understood, which can encourage more open communication.

2. Identify the Root Cause

Children might dislike school for a variety of reasons, such as difficulty with subjects, social challenges, bullying, or feeling overwhelmed by expectations. Try to gently uncover the underlying cause by asking open-ended questions about their day-to-day experiences. Understanding what’s really bothering them can help you find a targeted solution.

3. Communicate with the School

Building a strong partnership with your child's teachers is crucial. Teachers can offer valuable insights into your child's behaviour in the classroom and suggest strategies to improve their experience. They may also be able to make practical changes, such as extra support for difficult subjects or strategies to address social issues like bullying.
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Check back next week for more tips, advice and support on this topic! ☺️