5 Warning Signs Your Child Might Need Help – And What You Can Do About It Now

Hello, I'm Jodi Liston, President and Founder of Liston Education Group . As a parent, business owner, and educational consultant, I understand the challenges of navigating our fast-paced world and how easy it can be to simply assume our children are happy and healthy. It’s what we wish for, and life would be so much easier if it were always true!

However, kids struggle. Some struggles work themselves out and others get bigger. For busy parents, it's common to overlook subtle signs of struggle, but recognizing these signs early can make a significant difference for your child and for your family's future. Here are some key indicators that your child might need help and what you can do about it today.?

1. Behavioral Changes

One of the first signs that something might be wrong is a change in behavior. There might be a noticeable shift in behavior, or it could be subtle.

Look for increased irritability, withdrawal from family activities, or changes in your child’s social circle. For instance, if your child used to enjoy family dinners and now prefers to eat alone or no longer chats with you before school, these can be signs that something is amiss. Even subtle shifts in how your child interacts with you or their friends can be telling.

2. Academic Performance

You may observe a downturn in how your child is doing academically. Perhaps they were always a decent student or a student who excelled and now you're seeing a lack of interest in school.

A sudden drop in grades or a noticeable lack of enthusiasm for schoolwork can be significant red flags. If your child was previously engaged and is now showing a lack of interest or is struggling academically, it's essential to look deeper into what might be causing this change.

3. Physical Symptoms

Another sign that something is off are physical symptoms. Frequent complaints of stomach aches, headaches, fatigue, or unexplained injuries might indicate underlying issues. These physical symptoms can often be linked to emotional distress or anxiety, making it important to pay attention and seek medical advice if necessary.

4. Social and Emotional Distress

Are you seeing signs of anxiety? This may look like not wanting to go to school, not wanting to get out of bed, and wanting to spend more time alone in their bedroom.

Signs of anxiety, depression, or drastic changes in social interactions should not be ignored. If your child is avoiding school, showing reluctance to participate in activities they once enjoyed, or isolating themselves, it's time to start a conversation.

5. Disinterest in Summer Activities

Summer can be a wonderful time for children to relax and enjoy themselves, but it can also present unique challenges. Sometimes, a child's disinterest in summer activities they once loved can be a sign that something is wrong. If they are avoiding camp, sports, or other hobbies, it might be worth exploring further.

Look for signs such as:

• Lack of enthusiasm for planned summer activities
• Avoiding social gatherings or outings with friends
• Increased screen time and isolation
• Complaints about boredom despite having options available

These behaviors can indicate that your child is struggling emotionally or socially, even outside the academic environment.

What You Can Do Now

Addressing these issues before the new school year begins is crucial. Taking action during the summer can provide a smoother transition back to school and set the stage for future success. Here are some steps to consider:

• Start a Conversation (more tips below): Open a dialogue with your child. Let them know that you're there to listen and support them without judgment.
• Check In With People Who Know Your Child: Other adults who spend time with your child (teachers, coaches, relatives…) will likely see things you don’t and can share insights into your child’s state of being. Talk with them to see if they’re noticing any signs of struggle, or anything else that would be helpful for you to know.
• Seek Professional Help: Consider consulting with a child psychologist, counselor, or therapeutic consultant. Professional guidance can provide valuable insights and strategies to address your child's needs.
• Engage in Summer Programs: Enroll your child in summer camps or programs that interest them. This can help them build social skills, gain confidence, and stay engaged.
• Monitor Screen Time: Encourage outdoor activities and limit screen time. Physical activities can improve mood and overall well-being.
• Create a Routine: Establish a consistent daily routine to provide structure and stability.

Taking these steps now can make a significant difference in your child's readiness for the new school year, ensuring they are emotionally and academically prepared to succeed.

How to Approach the Conversation

It's entirely reasonable to think that your child might be defensive when approached. Here are some tips on how to start the conversation:

• Stay Calm and Non-Judgmental: Approach your child with curiosity, not accusations. Use active listening, which involves truly hearing what your child says without immediately offering solutions or judgments.
• Be Consistent: If your child shuts down or becomes defensive, don’t give up. It may take several attempts before they open up.
• Create a Safe Space: Ensure your child feels safe to express their feelings without fear of anger or judgment from you.
• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage dialogue by asking questions that cannot be answered with a simple "yes" or "no.” Some examples include, “How are you feeling about going back to school this year?”, "Can you tell me more about what’s been on your mind lately?”, or "What are some things that have been bothering you recently?"
• Collaborate on Solutions: Work together to find solutions. Ask your child what they need and how you can help.

The Importance of Active Listening

Active listening is a powerful tool that can help you understand your child's needs and feelings better. When you practice active listening, you show your child that you value their thoughts and feelings. Here are some key aspects of active listening:

• Listen Without Interrupting: Allow your child to express themselves fully before you respond. This shows respect for their feelings and encourages them to open up more.
• Reflect Back What You Hear: Paraphrase what your child says to show that you are paying attention and understand their perspective. For example, "It sounds like you're feeling really overwhelmed with school right now."
• Validate Their Emotions: Acknowledge your child's feelings without judgment. Statements like "I can see that you're really upset about this" can help your child feel heard and understood.
• Ask Clarifying Questions: Encourage deeper conversation by asking questions that help your child explore their feelings and thoughts. For instance, "Can you tell me more about what's been bothering you?"

Consequences of Ignoring the Signs

Ignoring the signs of distress in your child can lead to serious problems, including:

• Academic Decline: Continued lack of interest and performance in school can affect your child's future opportunities.
• Health Issues: Persistent stress and anxiety can lead to physical health problems, such as gastrointestinal issues or chronic fatigue.
• Legal Troubles: In extreme cases, unaddressed issues can lead to behaviors that result in legal consequences, such as substance abuse or truancy.

Seeking Professional Help

If you've noticed these signs in your child, it might be time to seek professional help. Here are some options:

• Therapy: A good therapist can help your child understand and work through their issues. Sometimes, group therapy with peers can also be beneficial.
• Psychiatric Consultation: In some cases, a psychiatrist might be necessary to evaluate if medication could help manage symptoms.
• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP): These programs provide more intensive therapy while allowing the child to live at home and continue attending school.
• Residential Treatment: In some cases, short-term residential treatment can provide a structured environment to help your child recover.?

Check out “How a 60-Day Residential Treatment Program Can Transform Your Child and Family” to learn more

Parent Involvement

Whatever steps you take to help your child, remember that parental involvement is crucial. It's not just about getting your child the help they need; it's also about understanding and supporting them through the process. Here are some ways to be actively involved:

• Practice Active Listening: Make a conscious effort to listen to your child without interrupting or judging. Reflect back what you hear and validate their emotions to make them feel understood and supported.
• Participate in Family Therapy: Family therapy can help address systemic issues and improve overall family dynamics. It provides a safe space for all family members to express their feelings and work towards healthier communication.
• Be Consistent and Patient: Support your child consistently and be patient with their progress. Recovery and improvement take time, and your ongoing support is vital.

Conclusion

Staying vigilant and proactive in recognizing these signs can make a significant difference in addressing your child's needs early on. Early intervention can prevent more serious issues from developing and ensure that your child receives the support they need to thrive.

Have you noticed any of these signs in your child? It's time to start a conversation and seek the necessary support. At Liston Education Group, we are here to help you navigate these challenges and provide the resources your child needs to succeed.

Connect with us here to book a complimentary consultation and we can talk about your specific situation, or visit our website to learn more about how we can support your child's journey.

By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that your child receives the help they need to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.

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