IS YOUR CHILD STRUGGLING AT SCHOOL? HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN ASK THE TEACHER
When a child begins to struggle academically or behaviorally, many parents quickly conclude that the child is “not serious” or “not intelligent.” But in reality, there are deeper issues that only careful observation and honest conversation with the class teacher can reveal.
Instead of assuming, ask informed questions.
Below are powerful and practical questions every parent should ask a teacher when a child’s performance drops.
- “Can you give me specific examples of the difficulties you are observing?”
Do not settle for general statements like “He is not serious” or “She is slow.”
Ask for concrete examples.
A good teacher should be able to explain clearly:
How the child fails to follow instructions
Whether the child daydreams during lessons
If the child frequently forgets homework
Whether the child needs constant reminders to complete simple tasks
If the child copies from peers instead of thinking independently
Specific examples help you understand whether the issue is attention, comprehension, discipline, emotional stress, or learning difficulty.
- “Does my child understand instructions the first time?”
Some children appear stubborn, but the real issue is comprehension.
Find out:
Does the child ask for repetition frequently?
Does the child start tasks correctly or wrongly?
Does the child get confused when instructions are lengthy?
This may reveal processing challenges or language comprehension gaps.
- “How is my child’s concentration span in class?”
Attention is a major factor in academic success.
Ask:
How long can my child stay focused?
Does my child easily get distracted?
Does my child disturb others or withdraw silently?
Sometimes a quiet child is not focused — they may simply be mentally absent.
- “How does my child compare with previous performance?”
Performance should be measured progressively.
Has there been improvement or decline?
Was the child once active but now withdrawn?
Is the decline sudden or gradual?
A sudden drop may signal emotional distress, bullying, family tension, or health challenges.
- “How is my child’s handwriting and work presentation?”
Poor handwriting often affects performance.
Ask:
Is the child’s work legible?
Does the child rush through tasks?
Does the child skip lines or questions?
Presentation reflects discipline and cognitive organization.
- “Does my child participate in class discussions?”
Participation shows confidence and understanding.
Find out:
Does the child volunteer answers?
Does the child avoid eye contact?
Is the child afraid of making mistakes?
Low participation may point to self-esteem issues rather than intelligence problems.
- “How is my child behaving socially?”
Social behavior affects academic growth.
Ask:
Does my child mix well with others?
Is my child isolated?
Is my child easily angered?
Are there complaints from classmates?
Sometimes academic struggles are rooted in social challenges.
- “What practical steps can we take together?”
Education is partnership.
Ask the teacher:
What can be done at home?
What support can the school provide?
Should extra practice be introduced?
Is counseling recommended?
When parents and teachers collaborate, the child benefits immensely.
Important Reminder to Parents
Never attack a teacher when you receive negative feedback.
Never shame a child before understanding the root cause.
Never compare your child harshly with others.
Every child has unique strengths and developmental timelines.
What is needed is observation, guidance, correction, and encouragement.
Final Thought
A struggling child is not a failed child.
A struggling child is a child asking for understanding, structure, and support.
The right questions can uncover hidden strengths and prevent long-term academic damage.
By Aps. Fortis Lenore Koffi Esson
Educator | Pastor | Counselor | Entrepreneur | School Growth Advocate
Hands of Grace International Assembly
God’s Grace Marriage Clinic
Transformative Learning Standards
Parent’s Guild Child’s Guide
Phone: 0538087038
© Aps. Fortis Lenore Koffi Esson
