Fredericksburg Parent

www.FredericksburgParent.NET 29 What Do You Do When Your Child Doesn't Like Their Teacher? If your child continues to grapple with the situation despite your best efforts to resolve it with the teacher, Wheeler says it's time to involve your school's administration and counselors. They can help schedule meetings as well as offer support and resources that encourage solutions for both the student and teacher. Wheeler recalls a particular case at LES where a student strug- gled with the way their teacher managed the classroom. After the parents and teacher met to devise a plan that would work for everyone, Wheeler says there was significant improvement. They not only planned to facilitate regular check-ins and offer the student more positive reinforcement, but the teacher also adopted a more supportive approach to their teaching style, which helped the student feel more at ease. LISTEN AND COMMUNICATE: When your child first shares these feelings, listen attentively and seek to understand his or her perspective without jumping to conclusions. "It is important to maintain a positive out- look and encourage open communication," says Wheeler. REACH OUT TO THEIR TEACHER: Next, schedule a meeting with your child's teacher to discuss your con- cerns. Provide a safe space not only for your child to share his or her feelings, but also to encourage positive problem-solving and resolution. "This collaboration can help address any issues and improve the child's expe- rience," says Wheeler. OBSERVE AND EVALUATE: Keep an eye on your child's behavior and performance after talking with the teacher. This can help you distinguish between a slight concern and a more significant problem. "Temporary issues often resolve themselves with time and minor adjustments," says Wheeler. "However, if the child con- sistently expresses distress or if there are noticeable changes in their academic performance, attendance, and attitude toward school, it indicates a more serious problem." For many, school is back in session, which means your child is most likely adjusting to a new grade with a new teacher. But what happens if your child doesn't like their teacher? It can be concerning for any par- ent, but understanding and addressing the issue thoughtfully is the key to your child's success this school year. When your child shares that he or she is struggling to connect with a teacher, you may be wondering why. According to Courtney Wheeler, principal at Lafayette Elementary School (LES) in Fredericksburg, students can wind up feeling disconnected from their teacher for numerous reasons. "[It can be] difference in teaching and learn- ing styles, misunderstandings, or feeling challenged by the teacher's expectations," says Wheeler. "It is also possible that a child dislikes their teacher due to frustration with a specific subject." "Over time, the student began to understand the teacher's expecta- tions and appreciated the structure it provided," says Wheeler. "The relationship improved significantly, and the student's performance and attitude toward school became much more positive." As we embark on this new school year, Wheeler says that working together is the key to your child's success in resilience and persever- ance as they navigate any bumps along the way. "Clear communication, empathy, and a willingness to work together can turn challenges into opportunities for growth," says Wheeler. "Encouraging a positive and respectful conversation between par- ents, teachers, and students fosters a supportive learning environ- ment where every child can thrive." So, what should you do when your child shares their negative feelings toward their teacher? As a parent, you can take a few steps to help make a positive impact for all involved: WRITTEN BY AMANDA DANAHER

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