Making Sure Your Child Is Challenged

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Elementary School Expert Advice from Barbara Potts

Question: My son will be transferring from parochial school to public school when he begins second grade this fall. He's very bright, but I'm concerned that he won't be challenged at a public school and won't work to his potential. What can I do to keep him motivated?

Answer: Talk with your son's teacher and explain your concerns in the beginning of the school year. Ask for high expectations and additional assignments for your son. When the class studies the planets or dinosaurs, take your son to the public library to work on an additional project on the subject with you.

If your son is working above the others in his class in reading or in math, ask that he be challenged in those areas. Perhaps he could work with the teacher for gifted children, or perhaps he could work with a group of high-achieving second-graders from other classes.

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Barbara Potts has worked as an elementary school counselor for many years. She has a BA in psychology from Wake Forest University, and an M.Ed. in Guidance and Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Please note: This "Expert Advice" area of FamilyEducation.com should be used for general information purposes only. Advice given here is not intended to provide a basis for action in particular circumstances without consideration by a competent professional. Before using this Expert Advice area, please review our General and Medical Disclaimers.

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