As a parent, it’s not always easy to tell if your child is struggling at school. Sometimes the signs are obvious, like failing grades. Other times, the signs are hidden in small changes in behavior or mood. Recognizing these signs early can make a big difference in helping your child succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Here are five common signs your child might be struggling at school and practical ways to help.
1. Your Child’s Grades Are Dropping
One of the most obvious signs a child is struggling at school is a sudden drop in grades. This may be especially noticeable if your child was doing well before.
What you can do:
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Talk with your child’s teacher to understand where they are having difficulty.
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Break homework into smaller, manageable tasks.
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Set up a consistent homework routine at home.
Even small improvements in study habits can make a big difference.
2. Difficulty Focusing or Paying Attention
Children who struggle at school may have trouble concentrating in class. They might seem restless, daydream, or get easily frustrated when tasks feel too challenging.
What you can do:
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Create a quiet, distraction-free space for homework and studying.
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Use short study sessions with breaks in between.
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Encourage movement or sensory breaks during long tasks.
If attention issues persist, your child’s teacher or a specialist may offer strategies to help them focus.
3. Social Challenges with Peers
Struggling at school is not always academic. Some children have trouble making friends, joining group activities, or reading social cues. They may seem withdrawn or get into frequent conflicts with classmates.
What you can do:
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Encourage playdates or small group activities outside of school.
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Role-play social situations at home.
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Talk with teachers about social skills support programs.
Social struggles can impact your child’s confidence, so early intervention is key.
4. Emotional Outbursts or Anxiety
Frequent emotional outbursts, sudden crying, or expressing worry about going to school can signal that a child is struggling emotionally. Anxiety about tests, social situations, or classroom expectations is common.
What you can do:
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Validate your child’s feelings and listen without judgment.
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Practice calming techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness exercises.
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Work with your child’s school counselor to address stressors.
Supporting emotional health helps children feel safe and ready to learn.
5. Avoidance or Resistance to Schoolwork
Children who avoid homework, complain about school, or pretend to be sick often may be struggling academically or socially. Avoidance is a signal that something feels overwhelming.
What you can do:
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Set a consistent routine for homework and school preparation.
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Break tasks into small, achievable steps.
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Celebrate small accomplishments to build confidence.
Sometimes, children need extra support or guidance from a professional to overcome these challenges.
How ABA Therapy Can Help Children Who Are Struggling at School
Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA therapy, is often associated with autism support, but it can help any child struggling with learning, social, or emotional skills. ABA uses structured, evidence-based strategies to improve skills, reduce challenging behaviors, and build confidence.
Circle City ABA works with children to address challenges at school through personalized therapy. Our team partners with families and schools to create strategies that help children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Take the Next Step
If you notice any of these signs in your child, you don’t have to wait. Contact Circle City ABA to learn more about ABA therapy services. Our experts can help your child develop skills to succeed in school and in life. Call or visit our website today to get started. Find a location near you! We serve Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska.
Sources:
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).”
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Child Mind Institute. “When to Worry About School Performance.”
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Understood.org. “Helping Kids Who Struggle With School.”
