It’s not funny when a child says things that ridicule other students. It’s not funny when a child’s antics interrupt classroom learning.

Also, clowning around during lessons could mean your child has a learning problem. She might not understand what’s being presented.

Doing these things will help address the problem:

• Tell your child the teacher says he fools around when she’s trying to teach. It makes it hard for others to work.

• Make a list together of times when it’s okay to be silly, such as during recess or at home. Also make a list of when it’s not okay to act silly, like after recess or when the teacher is talking.

• Encourage your child to think about consequences of her actions: “If I say this, my teacher will get mad.”

• Praise your child when she is serious. “Your teacher says you were very quiet during math today. I’m proud of you.”

Remember that constant or malicious clowning could also be a sign of depression. If the problem persists, seek professional help.

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