Growing up in older time, there really was no choice as to whether you liked school or not. It simply was not an option. School was mandatory and you simply went without complaining about it. No questions asked. Today's generation is far more sensitive, or perhaps today's parents are far more attentive to their children. When you really think about it, there is no reason for a child not to like school. The purpose of school is to educate children, teach them proper values and create a safe and comfortable environment that allows them to be themselves and thrive as an individual. This should be both fun and entertaining. So when your child complains to you that they don't like school, you should have a little red flag coming up in your mind. The first thing to do is to get the real story from your child. You will then need to communicate openly with the child's teacher and finally find a solution that is suitable for everyone. Helene Goldnadel explains the broader concept here.
Firstly, when your child begins to complain that he does not like school or would rather not go to school, you should never dismiss their statement as nonsense. It is imperative that you look deeper into what situation may be triggering such a bold statement. It is of the utmost importance that you set time aside to talk to your child and truly listen to what he has to say. This exercise is not about convincing him that school is important and that there really is no reason for him not to like school. Nor is it about telling him that there really isn't any choice involved when it comes to school and education. The key here is to ask as many questions as possible in a non offensive and comprehensive way in order to get your child to tell you what is really bothering them about going to school.
Next, you will need to start speaking with your child's teacher. Again, your mission is to get to the real reason your child suddenly does not like school, so don't go in accusing the teacher of not paying enough attention to your child. You really need to get the teacher's help. Keep in mind that teachers might have up to 25 or even 30 children they need to be watching out for and they cannot possibly concentrate on teaching your child the appropriate curriculum if they are busy acting as the behavior police. The teacher may however have noticed a particular event taking place or a change in your child's behavior that can give you clues as to what may be bothering your child. It's also very possible that the teacher may not have noticed anything and if this is the case, you want to make the teacher aware of your child's complaint about school and what he has told you so far. This will allow the teacher to keep a closer eye on your child and be able to report any changes or events.
Finally, when you have a good idea of what may be going on that is bothering your child or preventing him from enjoying school the way it should be enjoyed by any child, it is time to get your hamster wheel turning and find a solution to the issue. This may be a simple adjustment or it may involve more work and cooperation from many people. Whatever the solution, it must be suitable for the situation and everyone that is involved. You must be flexible in finding your solution. It is by cooperating with the people who are involved with your child on a daily basis that you will be able to achieve a positive outcome to the situation.
School is a pleasant environment that every child deserves to have the opportunity of enjoying to the fullest. However, life is not perfect and often times certain situations may arise that will make your child dislike being at school. As a parent it is your job to get the whole story from your child and then speak to his teacher in order to find a good solution that will allow for a better outlook for your child. As a parent this is a small investment of time and effort that will bring you the peace of mind of knowing your child is comfortable at school and is performing to his greatest potential.
