How to Help Your Child Who is Failing at School: Effective Strategies for Concerned Parents in Kenya

Watching your child struggle academically is tough for any parent. Not only because of the millions you’ve undoubtedly invested in their school fees but also the potential stigma it poses on the child. If your child is failing at school, it's crucial to take proactive steps to provide the support they need. Here are a few practical tips to help your child in overcoming their academic difficulties and succeed in school.

1. Maintain a Positive Environment at Home

The first step in helping your child is to create a supportive home environment. Avoid overly dramatic displays of disappointment or frustration; instead, focus on calm conversations that seek to encourage and reassure your child instead. Let them know that it's okay to face challenges and that you're always there to help them navigate through them. Academic struggles can take a toll on a child's emotional health. Ensure your child feels supported through:

• Open Communication: Regularly talk to your child about their school experiences.
• Professional Help: If necessary, seek assistance from a school counselor or child psychologist if your child is hard to read.
• Stress-Relief Activities: Encourage activities like exercise, hobbies, and mindfulness practices to reduce stress.

2. Identify the Root Causes

There may be more than meets the eye when it comes to why your child is struggling. It’s important to try and find out why they are facing such difficulties in the first place. There can be various reasons for academic failure, including:

• Learning Disabilities: Conditions like dyslexia or ADHD can impact learning.
• Emotional and Mental Health: Anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem can affect school performance.
• Social Issues: Problems such as bullying or social isolation can be detrimental.
• External Factors: Family issues, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, or too much screen time can also contribute.

3. Communicate with Teachers

Teachers spend a lot more time interacting with children compared to their parents, especially during the school year. They are valuable partners in your child's education. As a parent you should try and schedule frequent meetings with your child’s teachers to discuss their academic performance and behavior in class. Try and get their perspective on your child’s struggles and see if they can suggest specific strategies that may benefit your child.

4. Establish a Structured Routine

Children benefit from having a consistent daily routine. Create a schedule that includes designated times for homework, breaks, extracurricular activities, and family time.Not only does this help them learn the importance of setting time aside for their studies but it also teaches them how to balance it with relaxation and fun.

5. Seek Additional Academic Support

If your child is struggling with specific subjects, consider additional academic support by experts:

• Tutoring: Personalized instruction from a tutor can help your child understand difficult concepts at their own pace.
• Study Groups: Encourage your child to join study groups for collaborative learning and peer support.

6. Foster a Love for Learning

Inspire a love for learning by connecting academic subjects to your child's interests and real-life experiences. You can make a point to visit museums, science centers, and cultural events together as well as encourage their curiosity and critical thinking through engaging discussions about various topics.

If you have any experiences or additional tips to share, please leave a comment below. Let's create a supportive community to help our children succeed academically and beyond.