As a parent, you may get anxious when your child sets out for middle or high school. It’s a whole new world, with bigger challenges to face and potential struggles to battle, not just academically but also socially. If you have a child with social and behavioral issues like ADD/ADHD, you may have enhanced fear that he or she is unable to handle the pressure in school. Don’t worry. Let go of the reins, patiently work with your child, and discover how success in school can be achieved.
There are ways to help a child who struggles with learning and socializing. In the end, the goal is to help him or her perform well in academics, have less pressure at home and even enjoy mingling with others.
1. Constant Communication
Communicate with your child constantly to make sure you understand his or her struggles on a daily basis. Knowing what your child needs will help you determine what to provide. Perhaps specific learning tools keep them more interested and focused, or perhaps they need a strategic studying space or environment, help with a specific subject, or just an ear to listen to their sentiments. At the same time, keep your communication lines open with your child’s teachers so your goals and plans are aligned with theirs. Together, all of you can form an effective and strong support system.
2. Goal Setting and Rewards System
Children with behavioral issues lose focus easily. To manage distractions and loss of interest, develop goals with your child and stick to them. When your child gets used to the pattern, he or she can more easily handle a task such as homework and get it done successfully. If your child does a great job, offer a reward or an encouraging praise in recognition of his or her achievement. By doing so, your child associates the positive experience that comes out of hard work and determination to finish a task. In the same way, assign certain penalties for misbehaving or not doing assigned work.
3. Encourage Independence
Nagging your child does not help build the self-confidence needed to perform better in school or socialize with peers. It inhibits kids from expressing their thoughts and opening up to the world and the people around them. Instead, help your child by encouraging him or her to be independent, even though you are close by to assist as needed. Make your child feel that you are his or her strongest supporter, but help your child know he or she can still build relationships with others outside of your home.
