Things
NOT to Do When Your Child Has a Bad Grade
So,
your child has a bad grade. Whether it is on a progress report or a report
card, there is nothing like the sting of seeing that “D” or “F”. Just as there
are a lot of things that you can do to help improve your child’s grade, there are
some things that you DON’T DO if you want to help.
Negative Talk
The
biggest mistake parents can make when their child has a bad grade is to talk
negatively about the child’s teacher. It is so easy to become upset with the
teacher and start mouthing off to friends, neighbors, co-workers, your child,
and even other teachers who work with the offending teacher. However, this will
not help the situation. In fact, it will only help to exacerbate the situation.
The
truth is the teacher is not out to get your child. Chances are good that the
teacher is also a parent~just like you. He/She is not childish enough to “give”
your child a failing grade. Grades have to be record in grade books and turned
in to the school office and the state department of education. So, instead of
opening your mouth, try talking to the teacher to see what the problem is. Ask
your child to explain to you why he/she received the failing mark. Check your
child’s grades. And, let’s be honest. Your child’s teacher is human too. Your
negative remarks will more than most likely reach his or her ears. Although the
teacher won’t intentionally fail your child, he/she WILL NOT offer him or her any
extra help or assistance.
Intimidation Doesn’t Work
Why…oh,
why do so many parents feel obligated to get on social media and degrade the teacher?
Parents, what you are doing is called
slander. So, what if you know who the teacher is dating or where he or
she hangs out after school hours? The teacher’s job is to educate your child.
It is not to cater to your whims. Your threats and malicious gossip will only
backfire in the long run. It will not help your child’s grades, and it can
possibly land you in court if the teacher decides to pursue the issue. It also
makes you look petty.
Do Not Support Your Child’s
Bad Behavior
Okay,
let’s face it. Most students who have bad grades are behavioral problems…not
all but most. Why? Because when a student is confused or can’t keep up, he
tends to act out. As a parent, make it a point to get the whole story. Don’t
just assume Little Johnny is telling the truth. Find out what is going on in
the classroom from the teacher, your child, the principal, and other teachers
if possible. Get a clear view of the situation.
No one is perfect. Bad
grades can happen to even the smartest students from time to time. What’s
important is how you react to those grades as a parent. You are the key to your
child’s success. You are also your child’s primary role model. So, instead of
displaying negative behavior that can backfire in the long run, put your best
foot forward. Work with your child’s teacher to improve his or her grades.
