How to Help a Teen Handle a Difficult Teacher

When a teacher-student relationship is deteriorating, it can be especially difficult for the student. Teens not yet mature enough to handle the situation may lose interest in the subject or find their grades slipping. A difficult teacher may require administrative intervention or proactive parental involvement. Remember you are likely hearing only one biased side of the story. Keeping an open mind is essential to dealing with a difficult teacher.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Create a Family Approach to Deal With a Difficult Teacher

1. Try not to react immediately to anything your teen says. Listen first, then ask her to repeat the story. Write down the pertinent information and ask your teen clarifying questions.

2. Determine whether the teacher is difficult to work with or if your teen is being unfairly singled out. You may find a visit to the classroom a helpful way to get a good look at the situation.

3. Figure out the true root of the problem. Decide whether or not your teen bears some responsibility for the problem.

4. Demand respect and courtesy from your teen. Make sure she knows that you will not tolerate rude behavior.

5. Talk about what responsible behavior in the classroom looks like. Encourage your teen to turn his homework in complete and on time.

6. Instruct your teen to handle the situation with a smile and have a good attitude. It's hard for teachers to be mean when students consistently act pleasant.

Help Your Teen Solve Problems With and Without Your Help

7. Be a great listener. Sometimes having a parent who listens allows a teen to handle the situation on his own. Resist the urge to offer help if your teen is not asking for it.

8. Encourage your teen to find solutions to the problem on her own. If she is feeling nervous, offer to look at her solutions and then come up with additional options together.

9. Speak to the teacher, but keep in mind that your job is to look out for the best interests of your teen. Sometimes this means holding your child accountable for his behavior.

10. Meet with the principal or administrative staff if the situation can not be resolved through a parent-teacher conference.

Tips & Warnings

• Remind your teen not to speak in a confrontational tone when meeting with the teacher. If the teacher feels attacked, he may be less likely to see the student's point of view.
• Nip teasing in the bud. Ask the teacher to stop teasing your teen if she feels uncomfortable in the class.