A reflection before opening the report card
Some parents tend to react to their child’s school performance as if it was an evaluation of their parenting skills. Yet, that’s not the case. By taking a step back from your child’s report card, you avoid reacting too emotionally. Before judging its results, it is worth remembering that not all students have the same ease of learning.
Consequently, it is important to have expectations that match the potential of your child. You should concentrate on the efforts that he made as well as on the observed progress. Most important, avoid comparing his marks with those of his friends or siblings.
Have you just received the report card of your kid? Here are some suggestions to help you respond constructively.
Take a deep breath
Of course, it is necessary to avoid dramatizing the situation and remembering itself that the success at school is not compromised by an only bad report card. It is possible that the difficulties are temporary and that your child can remedy it rather easily.
Be proactive rather than reactive
Don’t wait until the last minute to be aware of his school performance. Check with him regularly about how he’s doing at school.
Talk less, listen more
It is important to listen to what your child wants to say about his school results. Perhaps his difficulties are related to lack of sleep, problems of concentration, or tensions with classmates or family members?
By letting him express himself, you will be able to detect some factors responsible for its lower marks. You will be better equipped to find, with your child, solutions to allow him to reach objectives adapted to his capacities.
Offer help not punishment
Offer him solutions, help him with his homework. Feeling that you are also involved in his school career, your child will probably be more motivated, which will be very helpful in the future.
Don’t forget; your grades do not define your child! How do you handle bad grades? Do you use the Tiger Mom style?