nothing is easy

All is well - or so I thought! Friday after school I received a note from 6's teacher.
"Thursday was not a good day." and so it begins again. More social difficulties - grabbing kids arms - and thinking it is a joke, 'borrowing' someone's toy at recess. Fighting with one of her friends. This kid does everything the hard way. If it is at all possible to alienate people, she can do it!

I was immediately angry. Then, thinking about this child, remembered it is best to speak calmly and find out what's behind the behaviour. There is always a story behind the behaviour - and I can usually count on the truth. Turns out she is feeling very left out and lonely. Has trouble joining in at recess and is suffering the verbal bullying of a child who would NEVER be thought of as a bully! We talked alot. Find something to take to school for recess to play with. (Pokemon cards or a soccer ball). Make a list of children you would like to have over for playdates. (and follow through Mom! - don't let the embarrassment of a disorderly house interfere with doing the right thing for your child!) Focus on being extra well behaved for the next week/month to lessen the perception of being a trouble-maker.

My mom says she could never handle this child. Doesn't make me feel any better. I wish I could teach her how to be more comfortable with who she is. She's really a great kid!