What to Do When Your Child Says ‘I Hate School’
Hearing your child say “I hate school” can be alarming, frustrating, and heartbreaking all at once. As a parent, you might wonder if it’s just a passing phase, a sign of deeper struggles, or something that requires immediate action.
The truth is, a child’s dislike of school can come from many sources– from academic challenges to social worries, motivation dips, or simply feeling disengaged in the classroom. The good news is that there are supportive steps you can take to help your child feel more confident, motivated, and even excited about learning again.
Understand the ‘Why’ Behind the Words
First, it’s important to stay calm and curious. Instead of dismissing the comment or reacting with worry, ask open-ended questions like:
- What makes you feel that way?
- Can you tell me what parts of school you don’t like?
- Is there anything that would make school better for you?
Listen carefully for clues. Your child may be struggling with a particular subject, feeling overwhelmed by homework, or having trouble with friends or teachers. Sometimes, kids don’t even know exactly why they dislike school, they just feel disconnected.
Address Possible Learning Struggles
One common reason kids say they hate school is because they feel lost or behind in class. Learning difficulties can chip away at a child’s confidence and motivation. If you suspect this might be the case, talk to your child’s teachers. They can provide insight into how your child is performing academically and socially.
You may also want to look for signs like:
- Frequent complaints about homework
- Avoidance of reading or writing
- Trouble concentrating or staying organized
- Low grades despite lots of effort
If you notice these patterns, a little extra support can make a big difference. While it’s not always necessary to pursue formal testing right away, consider working with your child’s school or an experienced tutor to figure out next steps.
Focus on Motivation and Engagement
Sometimes the problem isn’t a learning struggle, but a lack of connection to what’s being taught. Many students thrive when they feel a subject is meaningful, interesting, or fun. Look for ways to tie learning to your child’s interests with books about favorite hobbies, math games, or real-world activities that make schoolwork feel relevant.
At home, celebrate small wins. Praise effort rather than perfection, and remind your child that mistakes are part of learning. Help them develop good study habits and a consistent routine so school feels more manageable.
When Tutoring Can Help
One of the best ways to reengage a reluctant student is through tutoring. A great tutor does more than help with homework. They build trust, offer encouragement, and teach in a way that sparks curiosity. At Hodis Learning & Music, our educators teach with empathy and enthusiasm. We tailor our approach to each student’s unique needs and interests, turning learning into an experience that feels rewarding and even fun!
Final Thoughts
When your child says “I hate school,” it’s a sign that they need your understanding and support. By listening with empathy, uncovering the root cause, and offering help in a positive, encouraging way, you can guide your child back to feeling capable, engaged, and ready to learn again.
If you’d like to learn more about how Hodis Learning & Music can help, we’re here for you. Our caring tutors believe every student deserves to enjoy learning — no matter their age, ability, or challenges. Call us at (626) 227-1149 or submit a contact form to learn more about tutoring today.
