My child hates school. What can I do?

Start by listening. When a child says they hate school, it is rarely about school as a whole. Something specific is usually making it hard, such as a friendship problem, a subject they find difficult, feeling rushed or tired, or worry they cannot put into words. Finding out what it is comes before any solution.

Common reasons children dislike school

• Friendship difficulties, feeling left out, or being teased or bullied
• Finding the work too hard, or too easy and boring
• Feeling anxious, for example about tests, speaking in class or being away from home
• Being tired, unwell or not sleeping well
• Too much pressure, homework or rushing through the day
• A difficult relationship with a teacher, or changes such as a new class or a move

What you can do

• Choose a calm moment to talk. Children often open up during a walk, a drive or bedtime, rather than straight after school. Ask specific questions, such as "What was the best part of today?" and "When did you feel worried?"
• Take it seriously, without panicking. Let your child know their feelings make sense and that you will help them sort it out.
• Talk to the teacher. Teachers see things parents do not, and they can often make small changes that help, such as who your child sits with or how a task is set.
• Look after the basics. Enough sleep, regular meals, time outside and less screen time can make a real difference to how a child copes.
• Keep a steady routine. Children feel safer when they know what to expect.
• Try not to let them stay home regularly. Staying home eases worry in the moment, but repeated days off can make it harder to go back. If your child cannot face school, ask for help early.

When to get extra help

Speak to the school, your GP or an educational psychologist if your child regularly refuses to go to school, complains of stomach aches or headaches on school mornings, seems withdrawn or unhappy at home too, or if you suspect bullying. Early support makes a difference, and you do not have to work it out alone.

When a different setting might suit your child

Sometimes, after talking and trying changes, parents feel their child would thrive in a different kind of learning environment. Some families look at homeschooling, and some look for a school with a different rhythm and approach. If you are exploring options, it helps to visit, ask questions and notice how your child responds.

What helps children feel secure at Roseway

At Roseway Waldorf School, we pay close attention to how children feel at school, because children who feel safe and known learn best. A few things shape our school day:

• One class teacher from Class 1 to Class 7. The teacher gets to know each child well over many years. Read more.
• A steady daily rhythm, with movement, music and the main lesson each morning.
• Subjects taught in depth, in main lesson blocks of three to four weeks, instead of rushing between topics.
• No tests and marks in the primary years. Progress is described in a detailed written report at the end of the year.
• Art, music, handwork and outdoor time for every child, on a green campus in Alverstone.

Questions parents ask

Would you like to see the Roseway school day for yourself? Get in touch to arrange a visit.