Talking to Kids About Their Report Cards
With the end of the school year comes your child's report card. Will it create concern or evoke pride? Will it raise puzzling questions or help define concrete goals?
In talking to kids about their report cards, here are some points to keep in mind:
- Look at the report card with an open mind. Listen thoughtfully to what your child thinks of the report and how accurately she believes it captures what has happened in school. But don't take sides. As parents we sometimes react with "That teacher has it all wrong" or "My child is full of excuses." If you truly believe the report is unfair, take it up with the teacher.
- Focus on improvement and progress. Celebrate successes, particularly in areas where your child's put in extra effort—whether it's study habits, punctuality, teamwork, or concentration. Discover and discuss areas where your child feels he has improved. Encourage him to keep up the good work. Share your observations. Find out what he feels he can do even more effectively in the future. Discuss summer projects or plans that might help your child begin to meet long-term goals.
- Remind your child that everyone has strengths and challenges. You and your child need to remember that a report card is not an indication of your child's worth as a human being. Rather, it's an assessment of your child's progress, performance, and achievement in specific areas for one time period. Help your child understand that people keep learning, changing, and developing through school and life!
For related resources:
Interview with Dr. Carol Dweck—Developing a Growth Mindset
Preparing for Parent-Teacher Conferences