Worried Mother: Son keeps giving up and changing his CCAs

Dear Agony Aunt,

I am a mother of a young boy who is currently studying in primary school. I am writing to seek your advice regarding a matter that has been causing me a great deal of frustration and concern lately. My son has been signing up for various Core Curricular Activities (CCAs) at his school, but he seems to lack the interest to continue with any of them. Every time a new term begins, he expresses a desire to change his CCAs, and this has become a recurring pattern that worries me.

As a concerned parent, I want my son to explore his interests and develop a sense of commitment and dedication. I am not sure how to handle this situation as I want to support him in finding his passions, but I also want him to understand the importance of sticking with his commitments. I would greatly appreciate any advice or guidance you can offer on how to address this issue with my son and help him navigate through this phase.

Thank you for taking the time to read my email, and I eagerly await your response.

Sincerely,
A Worried Mother

Dear Worried Mother,

I understand the frustration and concern you are experiencing regarding your son’s approach to Core Curricular Activities (CCAs) at his primary school. It is not uncommon for young children to explore different interests and find it challenging to commit to one activity for an extended period of time. However, I commend you for seeking guidance on how to support your son through this phase.

First and foremost, it is essential to have a conversation with your son to understand his reasons for wanting to change his CCAs frequently. Encourage him to express his interests and concerns openly, and try to identify any underlying issues that may be driving this behavior. It could be that he has not found an activity that truly resonates with him, or he may be feeling pressured to excel in multiple areas.

Once you have gained insight into his perspective, you can work together to establish a balance between exploration and commitment. Help your son understand the importance of giving each CCA a fair chance before deciding to switch, while also allowing him the freedom to pursue activities that genuinely captivate his interest. Encourage him to communicate his feelings openly and assure him that it is okay to change his mind as long as he approaches it thoughtfully.

Additionally, consider involving the school’s guidance counselor or teachers in the discussion. They may be able to provide valuable insights and support in helping your son navigate his CCA choices and develop a sense of responsibility towards his commitments.

Above all, be patient and supportive as your son navigates through this phase of exploration. Encourage him to stay positive and resilient, and remind him that it is natural to try different activities before discovering what truly resonates with him.

I hope these suggestions provide some guidance as you work through this challenge with your son. Remember that every child’s journey is unique, and with your understanding and support, your son will find his path in due time.

Best wishes to you and your son as you navigate through this phase together.

Warm regards,
Agony Aunt