Like A Second Home | Your Child’s Behavior Issues in School
Does your child refuse to get out of bed, incessantly crying and pleading not to go to school? After attending school, does your child look visibly upset, but refuses to speak about what may have happened? In the wake of such behavior, do you dread receiving notice from your child’s teacher asking you to come in for a conference to discuss their behavior?
Having a child with behavioral issues in school can be confusing, frustrating and overwhelming. You may even feel guilty and worried that, as a parent, you are doing something wrong. Each day can feel like a struggle and you may be wondering when their challenging behavior will improve. You may also worry whether your child will grow into a happy, healthy and responsible adult. Between worrying about the immediate and long-term effects of your child’s behavior in school, you may feel defeated and pushed to your wits end.
Identifying the Cause of Your Child’s Behaviors in School
Children can display a wide range of concerning behaviors in school, from not listening to the teacher to disruptive talking and aggressive conduct. They may throw tantrums, talk back, be disrespectful, refuse to attend school or participate in activities. As you question if these behaviors are part of a phase, know that some behavioral problems are more than just the usual growing pains. Some are indicative of deeper, underlying concerns.
There is no definitive cause to behavioral problems in school, but there is usually a reason behind misbehavior. Emotional changes, genetics, overall temperament, learning difficulties, home factors and lifestyle play a pivotal role in determining the root cause of behavior issues.
For example, a child’s disruptive behavior may be caused by life changes, such as divorce, relocation, or the death of a loved one. The Child Mind Institute 2016 Children’s Mental Health Report stated that one in five children has a behavioral health or learning disorder, and 80 percent of chronic emotional disorders start in childhood.
The Message behind Your Child’s Misbehavior
Actions are a form of communicating how one thinks and feels. Due to their young age, children sometimes lack the social or language skills to describe their feelings or difficulties in challenging situations. Instead, they act out in response to their feelings or needs.
If your child is exhibiting disruptive behavior in school too often, it may be an indication that something is out of kilter or their needs are not being addressed. Your child may be sad, scared, hurt, or angry, but does not know how to properly communicate to let you know about how they feel.
While many children eventually overcome their difficulties, there are some who may need extra support and understanding from their families and teachers to be able to rise to the challenge. In the meantime, resorting to bad behaviors may be your child’s way of sending a very loud message.
Counseling for Challenging Behaviors
Parenting can indeed be a constant struggle, especially if you have a child with behavior concerns. It may lead you to think and feel as though you have failed in some way. You may feel hopeless, but it is important to keep in mind that your child is still developing. Their behavior can improve, especially with early intervention.
Through age-appropriate child counseling services available with a licensed therapist contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Pittsboro Office change is possible. Your child can gain healthy coping skills and work through challenging emotions, learning to express them in more effective ways. Call CCS today to schedule your child’s first session. Online counseling and in person sessions are available.