Joanna Fortune: My ten-year-old daughter cries during homework

Given she feels drained after school, I suggest structuring homework around her needs

I’m not sure what to do about my 10-year-old who hates school. She comes home most days in poor form and cries during homework, saying she is too tired. I’ve spoken to the school principal, who says to give it time as she is still settling into her new class, but the truth is she has never enjoyed school except for the days when they do art. She has no difficulty making friends. The ‘boring lessons’ and sitting down all day upset her most.

It sounds like your daughter has to work extra hard in school, much like anyone would when they have to make an extra effort to sustain something they find challenging or not enjoyable.