Look for signs of boredom, disengagement, or a lack of enthusiasm for learning.

• If your child frequently expresses boredom with schoolwork, seems disengaged during learning activities, or shows a general lack of enthusiasm for school, it could indicate that they are not being sufficiently challenged. They might find the material too easy or the pace too slow, leading to a lack of motivation and interest. Pay attention to their overall attitude towards school and learning; a consistent lack of excitement might be a sign that their academic needs are not being fully met.

Consider if your child finishes tasks very quickly without much thought.

• If your child consistently completes assignments and classwork very rapidly and without demonstrating much critical thinking or problem-solving, it could suggest that the tasks are not demanding enough. They might be able to breeze through the work without needing to engage deeply with the material. While efficiency can be a positive trait, consistently finishing tasks with minimal effort might indicate a need for more complex and stimulating activities that encourage them to think more critically and apply their knowledge in more challenging ways.

Encourage your child to express their feelings about the level of challenge.

• Open communication with your child is key to understanding their experience in school. Encourage them to share their feelings about whether they find their schoolwork interesting and challenging. Ask specific questions like, "Do you feel like you are learning new things?" or "Is your work ever difficult?". Their direct feedback can provide valuable insights into whether they feel appropriately challenged or if they perceive the work as too easy or repetitive. Creating a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings openly is essential.

Discuss this with the teacher to explore opportunities for enrichment or advanced work.

• If you suspect your child is not being challenged enough, schedule a conversation with their teacher to discuss your observations and concerns.  It is important to make an appointment so that the time is suitable for both you and the teacher. The teacher can provide insights into the curriculum and the level of work being assigned in the classroom. Together, you can explore possibilities for enrichment activities, more advanced projects, or placement in higher-level groups if available. Collaborating with the teacher ensures that your child's academic needs are being addressed and that they are aware of your concerns, too.