Parents advised to monitor kids' academic adjustments in first weeks of school
News provided byHuntington Learning Center · 2 min read
As 54 million K-12 students across the United States prepare to return to classrooms, Huntington Learning Center is advising parents to stay vigilant during the initial weeks of school. These early days offer critical insights into a student's academic readiness and the learning environment that best suits their individual needs.
Experts from Huntington Learning Center emphasize the importance of monitoring adjustments in a child's confidence, study habits, and academic performance. The first few weeks can reveal whether a student is struggling and may require additional support. Anne Huntington Sharma, President and CEO of Huntington Learning Center, stated, "Back-to-school is a new beginning, but it’s also a chance for parents to closely observe how their child is adjusting academically. Every student learns differently, and recognizing when something isn't working can lead to timely interventions."
Huntington Learning Center highlights five key signs parents should watch for to determine if their child may need academic support:
1. Homework Challenges: Consistently spending more time on homework than expected can indicate difficulties with the material or missing foundational skills. 2. Avoidance of Subjects: Statements like "I’m just bad at math" or resistance to homework can signal underlying struggles. 3. Shaky Foundational Skills: Difficulty recalling multiplication facts, understanding reading passages, or organizing writing can hinder progress. 4. Changes in Confidence or Attitude: Frustration, reluctance to go to school, or negative comments about certain subjects can be early warning signs. 5. Early Teacher Feedback: Early communication with teachers about participation, comprehension, or skill gaps can provide valuable insights.
Huntington Learning Center stresses that proactive measures are crucial. Delaying support until poor report cards are issued can mean missing valuable weeks or months to address challenges. The company recommends viewing the initial period as an opportunity to understand a child's needs and take appropriate action.
For some families, the back-to-school season may prompt a broader reconsideration of the learning environment. While tutoring and supplementary academic support can help students strengthen specific skills, some families may explore alternative educational models, such as microschools, which offer smaller, more personalized learning environments.
Micro School Powered by Huntington Learning Center provides a private K-8 setting with a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio, personalized learning plans, and a comprehensive curriculum. The model aims to offer focused instruction and greater transparency in a student's academic progress.
Sharma added, "Parents know their children better than anyone, and there isn't one educational path that works for every student. What we're seeing is a growing willingness to explore options that meet individual needs, whether through tutoring, ongoing support, or a different educational setting. The goal is to identify and address needs early to help students build momentum and succeed."
With millions of students beginning a new academic year, Huntington Learning Center encourages families to use the first 60 days to assess and support their children's academic progress. This period is not just about adjustment but about identifying and addressing any gaps to ensure a successful school year.