Are Your Prepared for Report card day???

A report card is more than just a series of letters. It's an invaluable tool to help parents evaluate their child's academic progress and assess his strengths and weaknesses.  Report card day can often be a stressful experience for both parents and students.  Parents facing a poor report card find themselves disappointed by the results and apprehensive about the best way to discuss failing grades with their child's teacher.  Students feel discouraged if they've been struggling to do better, but are just not able to make the grades.

Report card time doesn't have to be a source of mutual frustration and unhappiness for parents or their children.  By following a few simple steps, parents can empower thier child to bring home a report card that will make everyone proud of progress and accomplishments.

• Communicate with your child.

        Don't wait until the report cards are issued--it's too late then.  From the first days of school, make sure your child
        knows that  there will be a conversation about school every evening.  Conversations do not include one-word
        answers and half-hearted attempts at discussion.  They demand open-ended questions.

• Establish a study plan with your child.

        He/she needs to develop regular study habits and to spend an adequate amount of time daily on homework and         studying for tests.  Be aware of assignments and whether your student is using time effectively to tackle        
        homework and study.  Encourage him to put forth his best effort and to persevere.

• Get help immediately if you see a problem.

        Don't fall prey to your child's promise to do better.  HE may not be able to correct certain issues without help from         the adults in his life.

• Meet with your child's teachers.

        Keep an open line of communication with your child's teacher.  Talk frankly with the teacher about any skill     \
        deficiencies that are causing performance problems and work with the teacher to address these issues.  Also    
        explore other resources offered by school such as tutors, homework centers, pre-school day classes or online
        subject support.  The link between school and home is vital.

• Stay in touch with your child's school counselor.

        The link between home and school is vital.  The counselor can request periodic progress reports between grading         periods and set up conferences with teachers, parents, and students when necessary.

• Be sure to keep report cards in perspective.

        Remember that this is just one measure at one particular time of how your child is doing.  It is an important one,    
        but make sure you continue to motivate and encourage if your child is doing well in other areas.  Positive
        motivation from parents is a great way to build your child's self-esteem and can lead to successful grades down
        the road.

If you have questions, please call us for a free consultation: 334.479.8010