There are many reasons a child may under perform, enough to write volumes. I do however believe that the foundation for a child learning begins in the home. Without covering the many different challenges a child may face there that may make them angry or hurt (such as divorce), many homes seem to be under the illusion that educating should be left to the schools.
For myself and brothers, and then to my son, we were taught to read through comics before starting school. Encouraged to read, by the time i was ten I had devoured my fathers library, which was extensive and held many books of deep thought. My son is the same way as I applied to him what I saw had worked with me.
So many parents (especially single moms) allow the demands on their quest for daily bread to be a justification for not planning beyond what dinner will be as they juggle things like laundry and preparations for other unavoidable life situations. Then of course they want some time to unwind, so they often seem content to allow the TV or computer etc be their childs companion/teacher.
I am of the belief that most children (even those diagnosed with learning disabilities) are genius at what interests them, so it seems apparent to me that taking their interests and seeking ways to join it to reading/learning is crucial, especially at the earliest formative years. We all have our natural proclivities and unfortunately the schools are designed to force all children through all the various holes regardless of shape which can be damaging to a child left to fend for themselves as many children are. The square peg does not fit in the round hole, and the children need to understand (by parents who emphasize this) the fault lies with the school, not them.
Good morning practicalthought, so many great ideas in your post sized reply. I agree with them all and firmly believe that parents and the home hold the most influence over a child's attitude and want to learn. The children with a leaning difficulties who keep trying are most likely have the strong positive relationship with parents and are from supportive enriching homes.
So many variables contribute to a child's choices in life. School systems definitely get it wrong but I also know having worked in the Education system in Queensland that there are very good teachers who do their best for their students. Of course there are always teachers who fall short.