Educators: Spotting Signs of Health Struggles Early
- John Hayes Jr, MD
- Aug 25
- 2 min read
How Teachers Can Help Catch the Hidden Causes of Learning & Behavior Challenges
As a teacher, you’re on the front lines of student wellness every single day. You see how children learn, behave, socialize, and cope—and often, you're the first to notice when something seems “off.”
While academic challenges are often addressed quickly, underlying health issues can go unnoticed, especially when they present as distraction, fatigue, or emotional outbursts.
Here are key signs to watch for and how to partner with families to support the whole child.
Health Struggles That Can Affect Learning
Vision Issues
Squinting, covering one eye, or getting very close to books/screens
Frequent headaches, eye rubbing, or losing their place while reading
Poor attention span or behavior changes during visual tasks
Hearing Difficulties
Frequently asking “what?” or appearing to ignore instructions
Difficulty following verbal directions
Speaking too loudly or softly
Struggling in group discussions or noisy environments
Sleep Deprivation
Daytime sleepiness or dozing off in class
Irritability or short temper
Poor concentration and memory
Frequent tardiness or absences
Chronic Health Conditions
Frequent absences or repeated visits to the nurse
Fatigue, brain fog, or mood swings
Difficulty managing energy throughout the day
Mentioning stomach aches, headaches, or general discomfort
What You Can Do:
Document patterns you observe with dates/times
Gently share concerns with caregivers, stick to what you’ve noticed, not a diagnosis
Encourage families to follow up with a pediatrician
Collaborate with school nurses and counselors for additional support
Be part of the solution, flexibility and compassion go a long way
Teachers = Health Allies
Your observations can lead to early diagnosis, better treatment, and a student who finally feels seen and supported. Thank you for all you do.
Comments