Helping
Kids Bounce Back: What do we know about School Effects on Kids
Being able to make it through the tough times and bounce back is a skill.
Children have to learn this skill and schools can fill in many gaps where
children's families and friends have failed them.
Children can go through many things that will make them not trusting,
to act out, and to be scared. It is very sad when children feel there is
no better answer than hurting themselves or someone else. It will take
all of us- the family and the school and the community to help children
learn to MAKE IT in this TOUGH world.
Some of these things that can really work on a child in a negative way
are:
Many school changes and transfers
Failing in some of their school subjects, just not really
learning to learn
Feeling like school is not the place for them or they don't
fit in
Hanging out with friends who also have these risks in their
lives
What can school do to support and protect children?
Connect children to each other as friends. Children who
have at least one caring friend can make it
School staff can take a personal interest in kids that
seen to be disconnected, invisible to other kids, or ones
who are picked on a lot
School staff who can really listen and hear child concerns
School teachers that work on cooperative learning instead
of competitive learning- pitting one child against another
in school will help those children who may be fragile
School kids really look up to the teachers and hold them
up as role models. Providing a positive role model is important!
Staff who are "there" and turnover is reduced
provide something kids can learn to count on in their lives
Teachers can outline their expectations for success without
seeming punishing, this gives a framework to work towards,
not a penalty box to sit within
Connect kids to organized activities. Make it easy to participate
and make it fun. Have a range of options so there is something
for everyone.
Kids who have an overall positive school experience will
make it.
