It’s often this time of year that we start to hear from parents who are concerned that something is amiss for their child, as their grades are starting to trend downward and their child is just not happy. Before we dive into how best to react to your student’s falling grades, it’s important to note that poor grades are not always a representation of who your student is, their work ethic, or a sign that they aren’t learning in class. 

We’d like to think that all parents want their students to succeed, and most importantly, we want our children to be happy! But the grades that your student receives don’t always reveal what they are capable of, and more importantly, there is most often more going on beneath the surface to be attuned to. 

Here’s what you can do to support your student whose dropping grades are a sign that something is amiss: 

Reflect Rather Than React

When your student’s report card comes home with less than optimal grades, take time to pause and reflect, rather than overreacting. View their report card through a healthier “offensive lens” rather than putting your child on the defense. Often poor grades show up as a way for students to communicate that they are struggling. 

First things first! Thank your child. Acknowledge the report card and that it was probably scary to show you and thank them for sharing it with you! In your own natural way, let them know you love them and care about them. Offer to take the time to sit down together when they want to talk about school. For some kids, they might want to discuss things in the moment, and for others, they may need time to “gear up” for that conversation with you. Either way, the message you want to send is one of support and being present for your student so you can keep the communication channels open.  

When you have this conversation, ask your student how they are feeling. Keep your questions open-ended rather than yes/no “closed-ended” questions. Focus on the positive. For example, “What do you think is going well at school?” or “What are some of the things that you love and look forward to at school?” Instead of asking them what they think they can do to bring their grade up or what isn’t going well, by shining on the light on the positive, often the not-so-positive feelings a student has will emerge. Let the conversation naturally flow, allowing them to gradually shift the conversation, sharing their reasoning as to why they believe they might not have done their best. 

During this conversation you will hopefully get insights as to what could be better, areas they are unhappy and struggling, and dynamics that you may not be aware of. You’ll likely learn a lot!  Ask your student what suggestions they have for ways they want your support. For example, “How can I be more helpful to you?” or “What are some ways that things could be different for you so you feel more supported?” Involve your student in problem-solving so they can feel your commitment, love and most importantly, so they can feel hopeful again! Some examples of ways you might help them move the needle: scheduling extra time with teachers or locating a tutor who might be available to offer your student support in that area; helping them make study guides or quiz cards; sitting alongside them while they’re doing homework so you’re “just there” to ease their anxiety or even allowing more time to sleep in each morning by driving them to school instead of taking the bus if you know they are wiped.  

After you’ve had the chance to talk to your student and have established a plan of action for moving ahead, here are a few more things you may consider to help your student get back on track. 

Steps for Success

When you’re creating a strategy with your student on how to best improve their grades, you should “lean in” to understanding the reasoning behind why your student might have declining grades in certain courses. Is it because they aren’t understanding the material? Or maybe it is because they don’t yet have the skills to stay on top of their workload? Or, is it the type of questions posed on exams in a particular subject? Honing in on your student’s abilities, both strengths and areas for improvement, is a critical additional step in supporting your student. 

Finding the answers to these questions might need to go beyond your student. If you can’t establish the answers after talking with your student, it’s time to take these questions to their teachers. 

If you recognize that your student has a lack of organization and time management skills, it can cause them to fall behind in even more subjects and impact their road to success. We encourage you to set some time with your student’s teachers, either by email, phone or in-person, to ask for suggestions on what they are seeing, and together brainstorm ways to help  your child. 

There are many reasons, some more obvious than others, why students' grades begin to drop. If you notice your student could benefit from added support, we’re here to help! Our goal is to empower families with the tools and knowledge they need to identify a range of evidence-based educational possibilities that will engage their student’s talents, intellect, and passions. We have great faith in the abilities of ALL the students we work with and positive encouragement is something we offer every step of the way in our work together! 

Let’s talk learning: https://www.halleducationalresources.com/contact-us