Is School Becoming a Battle?
For many families, school has become a daily source of stress and conflict. Perhaps your child is constantly in trouble with teachers or the principal, refusing to complete homework, or struggling to perform academically. Maybe they cry at drop-off, act out in class, or simply refuse to go to school altogether.
These struggles can feel overwhelming, leaving parents and caregivers wondering, “Why won’t they just listen? How can I help them succeed?” Counseling offers a way to uncover the root causes of these behaviors and create strategies to support your child’s success, both academically and emotionally.
Challenges Facing Elementary-Aged Children
School concerns in elementary-aged children often fall into two categories: separation anxiety and disruptive behaviors.
Separation Anxiety Disorder: Children with separation anxiety may be afraid to go to school, crying or pleading to stay home. They might shut down, run away from teachers, or struggle to engage in class due to fear or worry. Common concerns include:
Disruptive Behavioral Disorders: Other children may struggle with oppositional or defiant behaviors, leading to frequent conflicts at school. These children might:
For both groups, these behaviors often mask deeper emotional struggles that need to be addressed.
Challenges Facing Teens
Teenagers with school-related behavioral concerns often face different struggles. They may skip school, leave campus during the day, or engage in risky behaviors like vaping or smoking. Many feel disconnected from their education, viewing it as pointless or irrelevant.
Signs of school-related challenges in teens include:
These behaviors can strain family relationships and leave parents feeling powerless. Counseling can help teens reconnect with their potential and build healthier relationships at home and school.
How These Challenges Affect Your Child
School and behavioral concerns don’t just affect academics—they impact every part of a child’s life. Struggling students often feel isolated, misunderstood, or labeled as “problem kids.” Their self-esteem may suffer, and their relationships with family, friends, and teachers can become tense or combative.
Parents may feel exhausted or frustrated, unsure how to discipline effectively or support their child through these challenges. Counseling can provide tools and strategies for both children and parents to move forward together.
What Counseling Can Offer
Counseling provides a space to explore the underlying causes of school and behavioral concerns while offering practical strategies to address them. It’s not about “fixing” your child—it’s about understanding their struggles and helping them succeed in a way that works for them.
Through counseling, children and teens can:
Parents also benefit by learning tools to communicate effectively, set boundaries, and create a more respectful, supportive relationship with their child.
How We Help
At Sunset Counseling Services, we specialize in working with families to address school and behavioral concerns at every age. Whether your child is struggling with separation anxiety, disruptive behaviors, or resistance to school as a teenager, our therapists provide compassionate, personalized support tailored to your family’s unique needs.
We focus on creating strategies that work for both the child and the parent, fostering success in school, relationships, and personal growth.
Take the First Step Toward Success
School doesn’t have to feel like a daily battle. Counseling can help your child feel confident, capable, and supported while building a stronger connection between you and your child.
Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule your first appointment. Let’s work together to create a path toward success and harmony for your family.
