UNDERSTANDING

The Most Important Grade                         Tips at Report Card Time

If there is a problem at school:

• SIT DOWN with your child and look over the report card.

• PRAISE YOUR CHILD. Find at least one good thing; attendance, no tardiness.

• BE CALM Let your child tell you about his poor grades.

• ASK how you can help your child do better.

• ASK what your child can do to make better grades.

• MAKE A PLAN with your child's teacher and your child to do better.

REMEMBER:

• A positive approach works best. Encouragement is more useful than criticism. Affirm your child's potential to succeed in the future.

• Separate who your child is from the grades received. Express your love despite the grades. Be firm but affectionate.

• Non-threatening discussion works best. Lectures and threats provide only temporary motivation for improvement. Listen sensitively to your child's needs and struggles.

• Establishing a regular time and space to study at home can be helpful to your child.

• Use TV as a reward for completing homework. Simple incentives such as watching TV or listening to music can motivate your child to study.

• Staying in touch with your child's school is important. The interest you show and the knowledge you gain can only help.

© 1999 Mental Health America of Hendricks County  All Rights Reserved