We’ve all had that one teacher who literally scared us so much we were terrified to go to class.
While you probably look back now with a little understanding (and sympathy), at the time you probably dreaded going to school and couldn’t wait to move up to the next year.
So when your child comes home with stories of how mean and awful their new teacher is, it can be easy to pass off their comments saying they be fine.
However, as you are only too aware, having to sit for six or more hours with a person who screams and shouts can be disheartening and that’s the last thing you want your child to feel when they go to school.
But what’s a mum to do?
If things are not bad enough to change schools or even classes, then you should take note of the following seven tips:
1. Don’t immediately agree with your child’s negative feelings
When your little one comes home moaning about just how awful their teacher is, don’t immediately jump to agree with them – that will only fuel their anger even more. Instead listen to what they say and explain the teacher’s reasoning behind it (if you can).
2. Let things settle
The first few days after starting back at school are always tough, especially if your little one had a particular nice teacher the previous year. Give then a couple of weeks to settle down before jumping to any conclusions or doing anything about it, and don’t be surprised if they are raving about their teacher in a few days – kids are a fickle bunch.
3. Tell them how THEY can make it work
It is important your child understands that the teacher/ pupil ratio is a two-way street: they need to adhere to rules just as much as a teacher needs to control their temper. If your little one is constantly getting in trouble for not doing what is asked of them, then they need to step up their game and make an effort.
4. Get in touch with the teacher if things don’t improve
If things really don’t look like they are about to settle anytime, then you need to make an appointment with the teacher and sort things out. Go in with an open mind and don’t be automatically ready to defend your child. Until you speak to the teacher you only have one side of the story, and should be ready should your child not be the cute little angel you initially thought.
5. Trust your child
If things are not getting any better and your little one is really struggling, you need to trust that they are genuinely having a tough time and not fob it off as ‘one of those things’. If you don’t get anywhere with the teacher go straight to the principal – school is tough enough as it without dreading the thoughts of going in.
