Normative Issues

Academic Problems

Beginning school requires transition, and normative academic issues could be expected when children begin preschool or kindergarten. For some parents, the early school years may be the first time they realize that their child is not mastering specific skills at the same pace as other children. Parents may understandably feel reluctant or resistant if a kindergarten or first-grade teacher suggests that their child be tested for a “learning disorder.” There is often misunderstanding about the definitions of learning disabilities, and mental health professionals may be able to assist parents to obtain accurate assessments, diagnoses, and information about potential learning issues.

Academic concerns are not limited to diagnosable learning disorders. School difficulties may involve other systemic and contextual issues, and multiple psychosocial factors may interfere with children's abilities to perform in a school setting. When a child enters school, the structure of attending school requires adjustment for families and children. Time management issues suddenly become more prominent as parents attempt to accommodate their work and family life to the school schedule. The structure of school also requires that school staff act as surrogate guardians, and parents may feel uneasy with the idea of other adults disciplining their child (or they may realize that their parenting philosophies differ widely from the teacher or school philosophies). At this stage of life, children are also challenged by a fear of separating from parents, and this may cause feelings of stress or “school phobia.” Counselors can assist with school-related issues by acting as advocates for parents and children in the school setting, by providing consultation for school staff, by facilitating parent-teacher communication, and by providing recommendations for interventions based on the needs of the child, family, and school.

...