I just got an email from my 6th Grader’s Teacher. She informed me that while my child isn’t being verbally disrespectful, she is not following directions, and doing whatever she wants without permission (sitting where ever in the cafeteria, going to her locker and the bathroom without asking, etc).
The Teacher didn’t sound angry, just frustrated.
My Daughter told me the same story (yesterday) as the Teacher did, just a different version (of course). She told me the Teacher does not listen to her and is somewhat of a bully (she’s pregnant and according to my daughter, very hormonal).
I know my child can be stubborn, but she normally does what she’s told.
I have ADD, and I’m beginning to wonder if my child does as well.
I’m wondering if I should have her hearing checked, to see if there is a legitimate medical problem.
Even if I ask the Pediatrician to check for signs of ADD, I do not want my kid medicated like a zombie.
Those of you who are parents of tweens (middle schoolers), what would you do?
Thank you.
Update:
Quiet Sweetie, That’s a very good question. She does have several other teachers, all whom have generously complimented her on her report card (in the comments section). None of them have ever complained to me.
My daughter comes home almost every other day complaining about this particular teacher. The teacher (is her homeroom teacher) is pregnant, as I mentioned, and makes remarks to my daughter like “I don’t care” when she voices her concerns or (according to my child) is very hateful and (in my daughter’s eyes) rude and insulting.
My husband (a former teacher) told me to schedule a conference with the teacher so I can judge for myself if there is indeed a personality conflict between the two of them.
4
✅ Answers
? Favorite Answer
Rather than assume the kid has ADD maybe you’re first inclination may be to meet with the teacher.
It seems from what you wrote that the other teachers don’t have a problem with her, and this is the only one complaining. If so, then its likely not the child’s fault; its the teacher’s perspective.
It could very well be the teacher herself has some sort of distraction going on (pregnancy and the like), and that your child simply is not being heard when she asks, and so just assumes its okay.
The problem these days is that people are too quick to believe the adults, and too slow to believe the kids. Sometimes children actually tell the whole truth, especially when they have nothing to hide. And it seems to me that if the other teachers compliment her, then its likely the hormonal thing with the 1 teacher is kicking in.
Let’s face it pregnancy is an issue to begin with. Its certainly not an ordinary event, and its going to create all sorts of demands. Well imagine taking a child to term, and having to deal with a room full of sixth graders. Especially homeroom which is the first class of the day. I’ve got to bet this particular teacher is cranky, likely doesn’t get a lot of rest at night, likely feels lousy in the morning anyway; and then have to deal with all the kids while refraining from all the perks of not being pregnant: coffee! And if she smokes, coffee and cigarettes.
Otherwise, its a pressure cooker and I’ll bet the teacher wants things her way, even if she’s totally irrational at times and your daughter gets in the way at those times.
Don’t jump to conclusions.
It sounds as if you are doing the right thing. Yes go to the doctor, she might not have ADD but some other learning disability. But first is this the only teacher that your daughter has? If not ask the other teachers if they have had any trouble with your child. If not then maybe your daughter is speaking the truth. If that is the case tell her to try to follow the teacher’s directions even if they don’t make any sense at the time. If it is ADD then ask your doctor for alternative treatments for this disorder. Though I would still recommend medication because it is so effective.
Source(s): I have ADD and am studying to become a teacher.
I believe what the vast majority of lecturers are announcing for a steady public institution kindergarten software. Being equipped to speak fundamental demands, realize instructional materials, can perform the events of sophistication and socialize moderately for his or her age (is familiar with biting and hitting now not correct, can play with others cooperatively with a few aid). For such a lot, that occurs round four-five years historic.
As a former teacher myself, I will tell you that getting students to follow directions is usually quite easy; those who don’t follow the teacher’s lead tend to stand out quite quickly.
Take your child to a pediatrician as you have planned.