Learning From Your Child's TeacherYou know how your child behaves at home, but do you really know what he or she might be like at school? Now is a good time to find out if your child is ready to learn. A child's mental health is an important factor in your child's ability to do well in school. Mental health is how a child feels, acts and thinks. Mental health problems can affect any child even elementary or preschool children. These problems are more common than you think as research shows that one in five children has a diagnosable mental, emotional or behavioral problem that can lead to school failure, family discord, violence or suicide. Help is available, however many children do not get the help they need. Here are a few questions you should discuss with your child's teacher:
If any of these above factors are noticed, talk with your health care provider as they can check for other factors that can inhibit learning, such as poor eyesight or hearing. Take an active role in helping your child get better. Every child and every parent has strengths. Helping your child do his or her homework gives you a chance to share your time and experience with him or her. This can strengthen the bond between you and also teach you what interests your child. Keep looking until you find the right services and the right providers for your child. Be patient, yet persistent. When it comes to mental health services, one size does not fit all. Children need consistency, both in the home and in the classroom. By working together, parents and teachers can reinforce a child's strengths and that's a big part of being a caring parent or teacher. For more information on mental health issues you may contact NMHA at 1-800-969-6642 or log onto www.mentalhealthamericajc.net
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