What to Do If Your Student Feels Like Their Teacher Is Not Helping Them
It can be discouraging when your student comes home feeling frustrated with a teacher. They may say things like,
“They do not explain anything,”
“They never answer my questions,”
or
“I feel like I am on my own in that class.”
When a student feels this way, it affects motivation, confidence, and performance. The good news is that there are calm and effective ways to understand what is happening and help your student feel supported again.
Here is how to approach this situation with clarity and compassion.
1. Start by Listening Without Judging
When students feel unheard at school, they need a safe place to express their feelings at home. Let them talk without interrupting, correcting, or jumping to solutions.
Try saying:
“I want to understand what is going on. Tell me what feels hard in that class.”
Often, the simple act of being heard helps students feel lighter.
2. Ask Specific Questions to Understand the Real Issue
Students sometimes generalize their frustration. They may say the teacher is not helpful when the real problem is unclear instructions, a fast pace, or feeling embarrassed to ask questions.
Ask gentle questions such as:
What part of the class feels confusing
When do you feel lost the most
Does the teacher explain the steps or move too quickly
What have you tried that did not work
Specifics help you uncover what is truly going on.
3. Encourage Your Student to Advocate for Themselves
Learning how to speak up respectfully is an important life skill. Help your student practice simple ways to ask for help such as:
“Could you please explain that part again”
or
“I am confused about this question. Can you show me the first step”
Sometimes teachers do not realize a student is struggling until the student reaches out.
4. Suggest Meeting With the Teacher After Class
Many students feel more comfortable asking questions one on one than in front of the entire class. A short meeting can clear up confusion fast.
Encourage your student to say:
“Could I talk with you for a minute after class. I want to understand this better.”
Most teachers appreciate students who take initiative.
5. Step In as a Parent When Needed
If your student has already tried reaching out and still feels unsupported, it is completely appropriate for you to contact the teacher.
Keep the tone friendly and focused on teamwork. You might write:
“I want to make sure my student understands the material. Could you share any advice or strategies we can try at home”
This approach builds cooperation instead of conflict.
6. Look for Additional Resources in the Class
Some teachers provide support that students forget to use or may not know exists. Ask your student to check for:
Study guides
Online notes or videos
Extra practice sheets
Office hours
Recorded lessons
These tools can make a big difference when a student feels stuck.
7. Consider Tutoring to Fill the Gaps
If the class moves too quickly or the teaching style does not match your student’s learning style, tutoring can give your student the support they are missing. A tutor can explain concepts clearly, build confidence, and help your student feel prepared instead of frustrated.
At Tutors and Friends, we see this situation often. A few sessions of clear guidance can help a student feel supported again and improve their relationship with the class.
8. Reinforce That Asking for Help Is a Strength
Students sometimes believe asking for help makes them look weak or behind. Remind your student that successful learners seek support early and often.
You can say:
“I am proud of you for speaking up and asking for help. That takes strength.”
The more supported they feel, the more likely they are to stay engaged.
Final Thoughts
When a student feels like their teacher is not helping them, it is usually a sign that they feel confused, overwhelmed, or disconnected. With support at home, clear communication, and additional resources, students can rebuild confidence and find a path forward.
They are not alone, and there are many ways to help them feel strong and capable again.
