What to do When you Think Something Isn’t Right
It's always a bit nerve racking when as a parent you are told that your child might not be doing well in school. As parents we want the best for our kids. As parents we see the potential of our children and have visions of what they might perhaps be later on. But what do you do when a school calls to say that maybe things are running at smoothly as you thought? What do you do when you think maybe something isn't quite right? Are there things you can do to rule things out quickly? Of course! Below I've listed 4 things that you can quickly to help start supporting your child.
1. DO NOT PANIC
Firstly take a deep breath. The teachers call to let you know so that together you can begin collaboration in supporting your child. Sometimes kids just need a little help to catch up. Be open to hearing from the teacher, and feel free to ask questions, make suggestions and find a way to work together.
2. SPEAK TO YOUR DOCTOR
One of the important things to do is to speak to your child's doctor or healthcare professional about what the teachers are noticing. If you don’t think you can provide those observations, teachers can write a note to the doctor for you. This is important because documenting the issues in your child's file allows for you to keep track of what might be happening. Healthcare professionals have a wealth of knowledge of where to find support and access resources.
3. HEARING CHECK
While you're at the doctor's ask for a hearing test, this type of test is done by referral from your doctor. This is one of the first things to do if you or the teachers suspect there might be something going on. Hearing correctly is important for so many things in education. If someone can't hear correctly it will affect their ability to learn to read, write or understand what is happening in the classroom.
4. CHECK EYE SIGHT
If you are not seeing things correctly it's tough to learn. It's important do this early on. It's easy to get done, many eye glasses shops have doctors on site who can do the test. Here in Ontario Hakim Optical for example has optometrists on site who can do a quick exam.
As a parent these are things you can do right away, easily and at no cost! Remember that a phone call or meeting with your child's teacher with a suggestion that your child might be struggling is not always a bad thing. It's proof that your child's teacher has been paying attention!
Still now sure how to get help? Drop me an email and ask how I might be able to support you through understanding and advocacy.
