Parents all want their children to perform well in every subject and bring home an impressive report card. Unfortunately, the reality is that during your child’s K-12 years there are high chances that they will obtain a few disappointing grades. How parents handle bad grades is very important as this can affect your child’s future approach to studying. A bad report card can lead to an emotional situation for both the child and the parents. Here are some tips on how to react if your child brings home a bad report card.

First, don’t lose your temper with your child, talk to them. It is alright to let your child know that you are disappointed and that you perhaps feel they could have done better. It is imperative to discuss this calmly with your child and seek their opinion. You do not want to leave your child humiliated or ashamed.

Next, don’t rush them. Chances are your child will already be aware that the report contains some red flags. Once you have absorbed the news takes time to think about it all. It is important not to react instantly while emotions may be running high. If you are worried, tell your child that you need to look carefully at it and then you will discuss with them. Be calm and they will be too.

Discuss a realistic game plan with your child to try and improve their grades. Don’t punish for poor grades, it is better to try and identify problem areas and work with your child. Be realistic; a child who is obtaining D and C grades is unlikely to be able to get an A for the next report card. Improvement will likely be gradual but praise that improvement. The trend is what matters in this situation, not the score. Your child will be counting on you to help them out. Follow the above points and if need be, do not be put off to ask for help from the school. Remember children do not want to fail so help them get back on track.