Fitting in at school can be a difficult and sometimes a scary experience for children, especially if they're struggling with a form of developmental disability. Fortunately, there is good news. You can help your child fit in by applying some simple aspects that will assist them and encourage them through their situations at school.
1. Be Involved in What They Do
Your child may not be ready to take on the world by themselves. Holding their hand by simply being present and involved in their activities is all it takes. Children want to do simple things like going to a school recital, being part of the soccer team, attending other sporting experiences, or helping with event plans for the school. Seeing their parent's involvement can be inspiring for the child. Unsurprisingly, a parent's support can positively impact a child and lays the foundations of reassurance, stability, and support.
2. Encourage Social Opportunities
Encourage your child to be involved in social events. For example, they might prefer arts and crafts over sports or perhaps play chess and enjoy music. They can also partake in social groups at religious gatherings. There are various options for your child to choose from since they are growing up and learning to discover their talents and likes and eventually find their own friends through social groups. At The International Preparatory School, 54% of students scored at or above the proficient level for math, and 50% scored at or above that level for reading. Putting them in a reading club or after-school program can help encourage good grades and social opportunities simultaneously.
3. Nurture Healthy Friendships from a Young Age
Encourage your young child to seek positive and healthy friendships with their peers. Your child will feel comfortable when they find friendships that share their interests and likes. They may feel left out if put within a group and don't share the same interests. For instance, your child thrives with numbers mathematics is their favorite subject, but having to try out for sporting events with kids who are good at sports can cause some form of insecurity. Even if they have sports on some days, they can still look forward to their other peer events because they are sharing friendships and socializing with like-minded children and thus fitting in.
4. Consider the Type of School
Your child might have learning challenges, and if placed in a public school, they might not have all the facilities that a private school designed for special needs children have. Data shows that about 50.4 million children attended public schools, 5.2 million children attended private schools, with almost 2 million children in Catholic schools. Finding the ideal school for your child is one of the many critical ways you can help your child fit in.
5. Encourage Your Child to Speak Openly About Their Struggles
Suicide is the second highest cause of death in young children between the ages of 10 and 14. An open relationship with your child may help you spot the signs of depression and other negative aspects that could affect them at school. If your child feels free to talk, something can be done early. Remember to be open with your children about mental health and encourage them to communicate their feelings honestly.
Moreover, if you notice that your child is facing communication or language processing challenges, consider seeking professional guidance and support who specialize in child development and communication, including experts knowledgeable about Gestalt language processing. Navigating these issues as a parent can be challenging, but being proactive can improve your child's well-being and school performance.
It's not easy being a parent and raising a kid, let alone staying up to date with how things are changing. Allowing your child the confidence and security of knowing that they can freely talk about their struggles without judgment will significantly help.
Have you got a young child you're looking to help fit into their new school or make friends and be confident? Don't panic; this is very common in many homes. Try using some of these tips as a way forward to helping your baby fit in.