Emotional child - help

[Myleftfoot39]

Ds is in a Y2/3 class and finding the work very hard. It seems that the teacher is teaching Y3 material as my son comes home talking about having to count in 8s and 4s with no number lines or number squares to help. It’s getting him down as he feels he can’t do the work. He’s still not counting fully in 2s, 5s and 10s yet so really don’t understand why they are pushing them to do this. The other Y2 are also really struggling.

Previously I’ve spoken to the teacher about ds finding the work hard. He puts his hand up but no one comes, teacher said that’s true but it’s because so many finding it very hard and also have their hands up. I also feel like the teacher tries to brush off my concerns.

Ds is very emotional at home, seems upset, easily frustrated and seems to be linked to this frustration with his work. He’s above expected on most areas according to last year’s report and I feel at a loss.

Sorry to hear your son is going through this. Mine had a similar experience, but they do get through it and he will catch up.

Right now, make sure he is getting plenty of sleep and exercise. Sounds silly, but mine is a mess if he’s tired and so emotional. Exercise helps tire them out and boosts brain power. It’s probably much better than stressing over homework.

Also, get some fun maths apps to play. Mister math is good. So is TT rockstars for times tables.

It’s possible the teacher isn’t teaching in a way that works for him, so whatever you can do to make maths fun will help him engage more and give him confidence. That’s what he needs right now.

Lots of hugs and reassurance. He will get there. Unfortunately, teachers work to syllabus and targets. It’s not always easy, but next year he will have a new teacher and hopefully they will take it a bit slower for the ones who need to catch up. Lockdown has impacted so many children, you won’t be alone in this.

Hope it gets better soon x

I would perhaps speak to the teacher again and look to establish whether he is teaching material for the year above. Now that he knows your ds is struggling he should make the effort to help him in class rather than ignoring his hand being up, or your son will disengage from classes and his self esteem could end up quite damaged.

If this doesn't work, I'd raise it with the head.