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Fayette-Mom: First grade troubles

We’re only a few days into the new school year, and I already feel overwhelmed!

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Jennifer Joyner
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Jennifer Joyner

We’re only a few days into the new school year, and I already feel overwhelmed!

My daughter Emma had no trouble in kindergarten. She loved her teachers, loved her class. I suppose I was lulled into thinking this “big kid school” stuff was easy.

Now that she’s started first grade, however, she’s having some trouble. She says she’s tired. She says school is boring. She asks to stay home.

Of course, I tell her we don’t stay home just because we are tired; school is her job and I expect her to go and do her best. My husband and I have presented a solid, tough love stance, but honestly, I’m looking for answers. She says she loves her teacher. She has some friends in her class. What could possibly be the problem?

I may have gotten a clue the other day. Emma told me she only wanted to go to school for “lunch, recess and resources”. That translates to: she doesn’t want to do the school work in her classroom. And I’m already having trouble with her sitting down to do her homework. Could my child hate school already? In first grade?

I’m hoping it’s just back-to-school jitters. If not, it’s going to be a long 12 more years!

Jennifer is the mom of a five- and six-year-old. She gathers news for WRAL in Fayetteville and anchors two morning radio newscasts. Her food addiction memoir, "Designated Fat Girl," will come out Wednesday from Globe Pequot Press. Read more about Jennifer and her book on her website. Find her here on Go Ask Mom on Tuesdays.

 

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