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As parents, all of us have experienced that what children say and what they mean can be very different. “I don’t like school”, “ I hate homework”, "The teachers don’t understand me", “I am just no good at math.” These statements and others like them frequently are expressed by our children when the underlying meanings might be:: “I’m confused.” ,“ I feel inadequate.” , “I need help with my school work.” What they are really telling us is that they have a problem.
Because we all want to see the best in our children we often overlook signs indicating that our children might need academic help. If simply encouraging students to “pay attention” could do the trick, parents and teachers could relax and forget about grades. Everyone would be an “A” student.
The following warning signs may indicate that a child is having difficulty in school. Today’s fast-paced, multi-tasking life just makes it more difficult than ever to reflect on what these signs can mean. Take a few minutes now to reflect on whether any students in your home consistently exhibit these attitudes:
- Reluctant to discuss school
- Lacking enthusiasm toward learning
- Lacking motivation or confidence
- Angry and hostile toward homework or studying
- Defensiveness and/or fear of criticism
- Feeling defeated or giving up
- Self-condemning (“I’m stupid, I can’t do it.”)
- Lacking in organizational skills (Assignments incomplete, missing or not done)
- Anxious or prone to over react
- Withdrawn and avoids school-related questions
What contributes to these symptoms of academic stress? Overcrowded classrooms, overworked teachers, greater competition for limited academic funds, competition for admission to colleges and universities and the dramatic increase in state testing requirements cause a great deal of stress for schools. What stresses schools eventually stresses students. For many parents, the situation can become overwhelming. It doesn't need to be.
We don't hesitate to acknowledge the benefits that coaches bring to our children's athletic activities. We know that coaching brings every athlete to a higher level. Even Tiger Woods still has a golf coach. Tutors are simply academic coaches. When students understand this simple coaching relationship between them and a tutor, tutoring - or academic coaching - makes more sense to them.
Call us today to set up a free consultation. 505 842 1515
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