It’s National Poetry Day, and it’s a good reminder that learning doesn’t have to look the same for every child. Some children learn best by reading quietly. Many don’t. At The RYTC, we work with many children who have been told they don’t fit the system, when the system was never built with them in mind.
Why some children shut down
When a child has struggled with learning before, even a simple task can feel stressful. They might freeze, avoid it, or act out. This isn’t laziness or bad behaviour. It’s their nervous system reacting to pressure, and a stressed child finds it very hard to learn anything.
Every child learns differently.
In her latest video, Helen explains why the idea of one correct way to learn doesn’t hold up. Some children need to see things. Some need to hear them. Some need to be up and moving. Some respond best to encouragement and play, while others need clear steps and structure.
🎥 Watch Helen’s video here: https://youtu.be/xoKKpBZCsus
How creative arts help
At The RYTC, we use theatre, film and music to support positive mental health. These activities give children different ways to learn and express themselves. A child who won’t read aloud in class might happily say lines in a scene, sing a song, or help make a short film.
Because the focus is on taking part and having fun, the pressure drops. When children feel calm and safe, they are more willing to try, and every small success builds their confidence. Over time, “I can’t” starts to become “of course I can.”
Simple ideas to try at home
- Read aloud together using different voices for different characters.
- Act out a favourite story or scene from a film.
- Use songs and rhymes to help remember new words or facts.
- Let your child record themselves reading or telling a story on your phone.
- Praise the effort, not just the result.
How The RYTC can help
For 30 years, The RYTC has used the creative arts to help brilliantly underestimated young people grow in confidence. We offer activities for families and schools, as well as larger projects for local authorities and organisations.
Our work alongside Education Selection Box was recently recognised with the Diamond Distinction Award 2026 for Specialists in Child-Centered & SEN Learning Programmes, Midlands.
If your child is struggling with learning, get in touch to find out how our creative sessions could help: https://helenkenworthy.com/contact-me/
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