The image below reminds me of the many students I've had who
completely hated school. They never described school as a rollercoaster
but they did say that things moved to fast and they didn't know what
they were going to do next.
Credit: Kevin Dooley (Flickr)
I tend to think if there were a rollercoaster themed around
school one of the turns would look exactly as that hallway does. A long
narrow passageway that tilts crazily to one side while not being well
lit is just begging to make someone scream. That would be a scary ride
for sure but no more so than a real school is for many students.
What can parents do?
Parents can encourage their children to talk to them about what goes
on everyday at school. Don't let them get away with saying nothing
happened. Ask them leading questions. Find out who they sat with at
lunch and what they ate. What games did they play at PE? Make them tell
you one thing they learned (if they say they didn't learn anything try
asking what their teacher told them that they already knew). These
answers to these questions, when asked on a daily basis, will give you
an idea of how they are really doing. You'll be able to find
out if their having a spat with friends or if they are worried about a
test. Start the ball of communication rolling and you'll be amazed what
happens. They may not volunteer but I bet they'll dish if you show an
active interest.
What can teachers do?
As a teacher I was always seeing students picking on other students
or trying to bully their way into whatever they want. I didn't stand
for it, ever. I explained that everyone in my class would be treated
politely even if they hated each other. I would treat them politely as
I expected them to treat everyone else. I didn't demand respect nor did
I offer it. Respect is earned. Politeness should be a given.
This worked pretty well with most of my students. When it didn't I
would have a private talk with the student then move on to the parent
and a form of discipline. Fortunately, most students respond well to a
good example and consistent enforcement of rules.
What can students do?
Students must be made aware that they do have a support network.
Make sure they know they can go to a guidance counselor if they are
having trouble. They should also be encouraged to talk to teachers if
they have questions about assignments. Teachers aren't mind readers and
can't help if they aren't asked.
Students can also join clubs or other extracurricular activities. If
they have something to look forward to every day, the ride might be a
bit more fun and a bit less terrifying.
Did you or your children hate school? How did you learn to cope??
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