Question:
My grandson has decided that he doesn't like school and that he doesn't want to go. Monday through Thursday is a constant struggle, but on Fridays he jumps right out of bed and can't wait to get there! (I guess it is TGIF syndrome.) I don't know what to do, I try to make his homework fun, and he likes his teacher. What else could it be?
Answer:
I had to smile when I read your statement, "I guess it is TGIF syndrome." This is a great place to start. Although he may make it hard for you Monday through Thursday, he is going to school, doing his homework, and likes his teacher, which is all positive. In general, how is he doing both academically and socially in school? Does he struggle in either of these areas? Has the school indicated that he should be evaluated for a learning disability? Does he need more support with social skills or peer relationships so that he can feel better about attending school?
If this appears to you to be a behavioral issue, I would explore with him "what is the same" and "what is different" about Fridays from the other school days. This may give you something more specific to work with. Perhaps on Fridays there is different seating, subjects, activities, or routines that he finds more enjoyable. Ask his teacher the same question to see if there is something that may stand out for everyone, and based on the answers, find a way to bring a little bit of the favorite things about Friday into the rest of the week.
Do this same exercise yourself and see what you may be doing, without realizing, that may be motivating him more on Fridays. Also, is there someone who he sees on the weekends that may also be contributing to his positive Friday behavior? Some children feel the loss of certain relationships during the week and look forward to being reunited on the weekend. If that's a possibility some contact with that person during the week may be helpful.
