Recognizing When Your Child's Needs Are Not Being Met at Their Public School

As parents, we all want to ensure that our children receive the best education possible, one that not only challenges them academically but also supports their social, emotional, and mental health needs. Recognizing the signs that your child’s current school isn’t meeting these needs is the first step towards finding a solution. Here at Havern School, we understand these challenges and offer guidance on what to look out for and how to proceed if your child's school is falling short.

1. Changes in Behavior

A clear indicator that your child might not be thriving is a significant change in their behavior. This can manifest as increased anxiety, withdrawal from social interactions, or unexplained outbursts of anger. Such changes often signal that a child feels misunderstood, unsupported, or overwhelmed in their current school environment.

2. Disinterest in School

A sudden lack of enthusiasm for school is another red flag. If your child, who once chatted excitedly about their day, now shows little or no interest in discussing what they’ve learned, or worse, expresses dread about going to school, it might be time to delve deeper. This disinterest can sometimes stem from not feeling challenged enough or, conversely, from feeling overly pressured by schoolwork.

3. Declining Academic Performance

Noticeable drops in grades or a disinterest in completing assignments can indicate that your child's academic needs are not being met. This might be due to the teaching style not aligning with your child's learning preferences or possibly because the curriculum does not adapt well to their individual pace and capabilities.

4. Feedback from Teachers

Sometimes, the signs come directly from the educators themselves. If teachers report that your child is struggling with certain subjects, or if they note social or emotional issues, take these observations seriously. Teachers can provide valuable insights into how your child interacts in a larger group and whether they seem happy and engaged.

5. Physical Symptoms

Stress and anxiety can also manifest physically. Complaints of headaches, stomachaches, or even general malaise, especially on school days, can be a child's way of expressing distress. Pay attention to these cues, as they often indicate that the child’s needs are not being adequately addressed in their current setting.

Next Steps

If you observe one or more of these signs, the next step is to engage with your child’s current school. Speak with teachers, counselors, and administrators to express your concerns and discuss potential adjustments that could better cater to your child's needs. However, if the school is unable or unwilling to make necessary changes, it may be time to consider alternative educational environments that are more equipped to handle specific learning and developmental needs.

At Havern School, we specialize in supporting neurodivergent children by providing a comprehensive environment that focuses on tailored educational approaches, structured support for social and emotional development, and a strong community that fosters security and growth. Our dedicated staff ensures that each child’s unique needs are met, helping them to thrive both academically and personally.

Choosing the right educational path for your child can be daunting, but understanding the signs that their needs are not being met is the first step towards empowering them for future success. If you’re considering a change, Havern School is here to discuss how we can support your child’s unique journey.