Start here: find the right support

My child is not coping at school

Introduction

If your child is struggling to cope in school, you are not alone. Many children need extra support at different times.

This page will help you understand what might be happening and what you can do next.

What this might look like

You may notice:

  • Your child does not want to go to school
  • Attendance is dropping
  • Your child feels overwhelmed or distressed
  • Behaviour has changed
  • The school has raised concerns

What to do first

Talk to the school

Speak to:

  • your child’s teacher
  • the SENDCo

Ask:

  • what they are noticing
  • what support is already in place
  • what could be tried next

Your next step

Find out how schools support children with SEND:

Link: Support in education 

How school support works+

Learn about the steps schools should take:

Link: How schools support children with SEND (Graduated approach)

If your child is anxious

Some children struggle due to anxiety or emotional needs:

Link: My child is anxious

If things are not improving

If support is not working:

Link: The school and I don’t agree

If your child needs more support

If your child needs more help:

Link: Do you need an EHCP?

Find additional support

You may also want help outside school:

Link: Local groups and organisations

What most people do next

Most families:

  • meet with the school to agree support
  • learn more about SEND support
  • explore additional services