My son participates in an afterschool program that is geared toward drama. It has been a perfect fit, until recently. I am not sure exactly what changed, but it has. Last year the lead teacher had a lot of experience and I guess my son didn't bother her as much. However this years lead teacher doesn't have that same experience. So my understanding is that his behavior has worsened and they didn't say anything. About a month ago the old teacher commented to me that we needed to talk about a behavior plan, she was going to call. She never did. I assumed that meant the talk I had with Andrew helped. I guess it didn't. So today the teacher caught me after class to say, he had a bad day, just like last week, I think he doesn't want to be here anymore. It wasn't really ugly, but very clearly sent the message that he wasn't really welcome anymore. I don't know why I let people get to me, I KNOW HE CAN BE DIFFICULT. I let it catch me off guard. I guess I just had no idea that this year wasn't going okay. I am pulling him out, I hate it, but I think it is the right choice for him. NO big deal, just one of those days. Love the trials of my child

By Alberobello on Tuesday, February 21, 2006 - 04:00 pm:

Oh darling! It doesn't seem fair, does it? Because he was doing fine and then along comes another teacher and they just want him out because he's got a few behavioural issues? That doesn't seem right at all. They should at least make an effort to make your son welcome and give it another chance. I don't think it's his fault more than they are failing him.

You could talk to your son and ask him if he still wants to do this drama class, and if he does then give him another chance, talk properly to the teacher and tell her he needs more support and a bit more patience, and if you think you are not getting through her then talk to the headteacher or whoever is above her. Your son shouldn't suffer just because she can't handle the situation. Maybe there is support available somewhere. It just doesn't seem fair that it was fine until now!

I am so sorry this is happening to you. Many hugs to you and your ds.

By Vicki on Tuesday, February 21, 2006 - 04:48 pm:

If this is something that he really enjoys, I wouldn't be so quick to give it up. If he doesn't care one way or the other, that might be a different story. It doesn't sound like she is even trying to make it work out. Almost like she doesn't even want to be bothered with it??

By Feonad on Tuesday, February 21, 2006 - 05:26 pm:

Sometimes the teachers aren't patient enough. The only thing I suggest is seeing if you can help in the classroom or finding a new class for next year.

John loves to talk and ask questions and I know it can take tremendous patience to have him in the class.

John is taking the drama too. Once class the teacher has 5-8 years old in.. Drama kids. The teacher had no patience too. Another class we found had just 5 and 6 year olds and he fit in just fine so far.

By Kaye on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 - 08:31 am:

What I thin the deal is for him is his favorite teacher just quit about a month ago. He doesn't really bond with the other one, and he just doesn't like change. So he hasn't been happy going. He is fine with quiting (we never let him quit anything, so he is suprised we are..lol). I talked with the director of the program, she was the teacher last year. She really wishes I wouldn't pull him out. I guess ultimately I don't want to have to worry so much for a fun after school class. We could MAKE it work, but I am not sure he is still gaining enough from it to be worth it for me. If he were sad about quiting, or even asks to go back, I will revisit this, but right now that is not the case.

On a side note I also got a notice from the school for a new ard meeting. I think it says he is about to more services, but the cute little form isn't super clear. They just did the dyslexia and ot testing and we will discuss results.

By Cat on Friday, February 24, 2006 - 08:21 am:

{{{{{Kaye}}}}} If this is something that's supposed to be a fun, optional activity and it's not fun anymore, I totally understand your decision and agree with it. I hope things go well with the meeting. More hugs. I know how hard it can be.