Concerned Mother: Suspects son is being extorted at school and lunchbox taken away

Dear Agony Aunt,

I am a mother of a 10-year-old boy who is currently studying in primary school. Lately, I have been noticing that my son always comes back from school very hungry, despite giving him a reasonable amount of pocket money for snacks and lunch. I have tried to pack him a hearty lunch, but he still seems to be famished when he returns home.

I am worried that my son’s pocket money might be getting taken away by his friends, leaving him without enough to buy food at school. I don’t want to jump to conclusions, but I am concerned about his well-being and whether he is being bullied or coerced into giving away his money.

I have tried talking to my son about this, but he is quite reserved and hasn’t opened up about any problems at school. I am at a loss about what to do and how to approach this delicate situation. I want to ensure that my son is happy and well-nourished at school, but I am struggling to figure out the best course of action.

I would greatly appreciate any advice or guidance you can offer to help me address this issue and support my son.

Sincerely,
Concerned Mother

Dear Concerned Mother,

I understand your worries about your son’s well-being, and it’s commendable that you are seeking help to address this situation. It can be distressing to see our children struggle, especially when they are hesitant to share their concerns with us.

First and foremost, I would recommend having an open and honest conversation with your son about his experiences at school. Let him know that you are there to support him and that he can confide in you about any difficulties he may be facing. Encourage him to share his feelings and experiences, and assure him that you will listen without judgment.

Additionally, it might be beneficial to reach out to his teachers or school counselor to gain more insight into his interactions with classmates and any potential issues he may be encountering. They can provide valuable observations and support in addressing any social or financial challenges your son may be facing at school.

In the meantime, you could consider providing your son with a packed lunch that includes substantial and nutritious food to ensure he is adequately nourished during the school day. This can help alleviate his hunger and provide him with the energy he needs to focus on his studies.

Lastly, it’s important to foster a supportive and open environment at home, where your son feels comfortable discussing his concerns and seeking guidance when needed. Your unwavering support and understanding will go a long way in helping him navigate any challenges he may be facing.

I hope these suggestions offer some assistance in addressing your son’s situation. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking support from school staff and maintaining open communication with your son can help in finding a resolution.

Best wishes,
Agony Aunt