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common problems at school

You may have some problems getting back into the swing of school life. Here are some possible solutions to situations you may face in school. Please keep in mind that if you have tried all of these ideas and they haven’t worked, then it is time for you to ask your counselor or parents for help in talking to the teacher!

To learn the solution, click the button next to the challenge you've faced.

challenges

	You can't finish tests on time and you are being marked down. Ask the teacher if you can take un-timed tests Ask the teacher if you can take the test at home Ask the teacher to break the tests into smaller sections and give them separately
	You can't take notes fast enough and are missing the material. Ask the teacher if you can tape record the class Ask if a classmate can take notes for you Ask the teacher if you can get the teacher's notes or materials to use as an outline during class
	You can't concentrate (maybe due to side effects, medication, or fatigue). Ask to have your seat moved closer to the teacher or away from noise Ask the teacher to let you know when important information is being given Ask a friend in class to share his or her notes with you If you’re tired, ask to go to the Nurse’s office and get some rest
	You can't keep up with class work and your grade has fallen. Ask the teacher to lighten the assignment load for you If you are facing an "Incomplete" grade, work with the teacher to find ways to complete the missing assignments
	You get tired easily and can't carry books or a backpack. Arrange for a friend to carry your books Request a few lockers at different places around school Try getting a backpack with wheels Ask for a second set of books for home use Ask the teacher if you can keep his or her books in the classroom
	You are having a hard time in regular P.E. class. Sign up for what’s called “adaptive” or special P.E. class Try a different role (like being the team manager or keeping score for your favorite sport) Talk to the school about excusing yourself from P.E. due to medical reasons Talk to your parents and doctor about other options
	You cannot spend the whole day at school. Work with the school counselor and your parents to rearrange your schedule - maybe you can be there for the "main subjects" like math and language and be let out for the electives like art or wood shop Work with the school to get a home teacher

Thanks to Ernest Katz, Ph.D., Julia Challinor, RN, Ph.D., MA. ED., and Mitch Golant, Ph.D. for their permission to use and adapt the above information.

common problems at school

challenges

You can't finish tests on time and you are being marked down.

You can't take notes fast enough and are missing the material.

You can't concentrate (maybe due to side effects, medication, or fatigue).

You can't keep up with class work and your grade has fallen.

You get tired easily and can't carry books or a backpack.

You are having a hard time in regular P.E. class.

You cannot spend the whole day at school.