Why Don't Some Intelligent Kids Perform Well in School?

Sometimes intelligent kids do not end up performing well at school. Find out the reasons for this and what you can do about it.A lot of people become disappointed when their intelligent child fails to perform well in school. There is so much pressure nowadays that even the smartest kids are sometimes left behind. It does not necessarily mean that he or she has a learning disability or some psychological stress.Here are a few reasons why some smart kids do not perform well in school. In this articleNot Challenged EnoughDistractions and StressSpending Too Much Time AloneLack of Exercise and Improper DietLearning DifficultiesNot Challenged EnoughSometimes intelligent kids need something more challenging to work on. The syllabus may be too easy and they tend to move outside their comfort zone. Many subjects taught in school seem easy for kids. This could be because both parents are equally intelligent as well so your child has developed a fair share of those genetics. If you or your children feel that the subject matter is not challenging enough, then you could consider moving him or her to a different board. For example, for a smart and intelligent kid – IGSE, IGCSE or IB board could be better. This does not mean that other boards are easy; it just means that your child would be better off at a higher level.Distractions and StressSometimes there are too many distractions at class or home and your child find it difficult to cope. This could be because your child can not tune out unnecessary distractions. Hence, it is always better to keep a separate area for your child to study so that he or she is able to concentrate better. Sometimes even adults tend to get distracted while working so how can one blame only kids?Nowadays, even classrooms are full of distractions since some kids carry cell phones, etc to school as well. Teach your child the importance of a good education and why he or she should avoid losing focus. A ‘smart’ or ‘intelligent’ child is after all still young only hence he or she should avoid temptations and focus on school and studies.Spending Too Much Time AloneSometimes kids are very smart; however they are very alone. This happens because both parents work too hard leaving the child all alone making him or her lose the opportunity to develop social skills. Hence, you could consider leaving the child with grand-parents or child care centre where he or she is surrounded by people instead of being alone. If you or your husband is unable to spend quality time with your kid then he or she may not have somebody to confide in to solve problems.When there are more people, at home; there is more scope for intellectual development and other skills. Leaving a child alone in the afternoon may not be the ideal solution, hence try to find out a better alternative.Lack of Exercise and Improper DietA diet high in junk food is not good for health as it can lead to sluggishness. Too much junk food and inactivity can make your child dull and slow. Exercise reduces stress levels and produces dopamine which is good for the brain.Hence, enrol your child in several activities during the day so that he or she is occupied and has the chance to do something. An idle mind is not good hence even if there are no opportunities or chances for your child to play; ensure that physical fitness is not lacking. A physically fit and healthy child is more alert and energetic which means that they will be able to study better.Learning DifficultiesThis is something most parents do not want to hear! Yes, it is true. If you feel that your child is unable to perform well despite ample opportunities, then there is a possibility that he or she has a learning disability. Sometimes there are several reasons why your child does not do well such as lack of preparation, anxiety or because of being disorganized. However, if you feel that your child is lacking something and there is some other reason behind his or her inability to perform, that could be true. Do read our article on learning disabilities for more information and meanwhile stay calm without worrying. Nothing is confirmed till has been proven.Thus, there is a possibility that your child is unable to perform well in school despite being intelligent and smart. It could be due to one or more of the above reasons. Ensure that your children have a good environment and no stress or anxiety which could be hindering their progress. Continue to motivate and encourage them every day.Why are some children unable to perform well in school? How to encourage children to perform well in school? What are the signs on learning disabilities in children? Discuss here.