Children and School: Understanding the School's Role in Resolving Behavior Issues

An example of a school-based problem and its simple solution: A child who sits at the table during their first days of school but refuses to eat. When asked why, they reply, 'I don't eat with a small spoon, I want a big spoon.' By making an exception and giving the child a larger spoon, the problem is resolved easily and quickly.

An example of a home-based problem and its solution: A child refuses to sit at the table during meals or frequently gets up. When asked, they simply say, 'I don't want to sit.' The family is contacted, and the school learns that at home, the child does not sit at the table and is fed by the mother while playing elsewhere. The parent is advised to gradually encourage the child to sit at the table. The same encouragement is applied at school. Although it may take longer than resolving school-based issues, a positive outcome is achieved through this coordinated behavioral adjustment.

There are also problems that have deeper emotional roots. These generally present themselves in two ways: those reflected at school, and those seen only at home.

Issues Reflected at School

A child with a new sibling may start pinching younger children, avoiding responsibilities they previously accepted, showing hyperactivity, or developing a sudden, intense attachment to their parents. This behavior often stems from their usual parental attention being naturally split. If the school contacts the family and finds they show the same behaviors at home, the parents and school can coordinate a joint approach. By scheduling dedicated, one-on-one time with the child both at school and at home, and acknowledging this as a natural transition phase, we see that the child eventually learns to navigate this new reality healthily and happily.

Issues Seen Only at Home

Sometimes, a child does not reflect their difficulties at school but displays them entirely at home. The family contacts the school to report the issue. The school counselor or psychologist meets with the parent to offer guidance. If it appears to be sibling jealousy, they provide recommendations to help the family navigate this phase positively. Since the core of the issue is resolved within the home, the school maintains close communication with the parents and monitors the child's progress. For both scenarios to succeed, families must approach the process with sensitivity and cooperation. If parents resist guidance from school authorities, consulting an outside child psychologist is highly recommended.

When a Professional Step Is Needed

In some cases, the adjustments described above may not yield results. Upon evaluation, the school may realize that the child's difficulties exceed the boundaries and scope of an educational institution. When this happens, the best course of action is to refer the family to a clinical specialist, working hand-in-hand as a school-family-specialist team. For instance, if a child's deep-seated anxieties stem from fears of loss or deeper emotional trauma rather than typical sibling rivalry, and if standard school-home adjustments do not bring relief, a qualified psychologist is essential. Children go through many developmental stages as they grow. Even if they stumble, they possess an innate resilience to overcome obstacles with the right, loving support.