When it comes to children's grades, many parents are faced with a dilemma: what to do if the scores leave much to be desired? Moreover, how to react if the child brings home only bad grades? Is it right to scold or punish? Let's figure it out together, because this question requires reflection and attention.
Impact on a child's academic performance
To begin with, reward and punishment, although they affect behavior, are not always a panacea for learning. A child can bring bad grades for many reasons: it can be due to a teacher who for some reason disliked the child, or even a common cold. In this case, emotional pressure or punishment can only make the situation worse – for example, the child will be so frightened that he will use deception and dishonest methods to get good grades. Do you like it? Unlikely. Therefore, it is important not to make mistakes, and most importantly, not to lose the child's trust.
Responding Appropriately to Bad Grades
Each of us, parents, can experience strong emotions when faced with bad grades, but it is important to restrain ourselves and not pour out a flurry of discontent on the child. An adequate, calm approach to difficulties can become a "saving boat". If your child committed an act that could have been prevented, deliberately, then punishment is possible. But even in this case, it is better to understand the situation deeper. Do not grab the belt or do not reproach the child, but try to understand the reasons for the decline in academic performance. Any form of punishment will be perceived by the child as an injustice to himself.
What to do if the child does not want to study
When a child suddenly loses interest in learning, this is a signal that something is going wrong. The reasons can be different: from personal difficulties to conflict at school. And the more we intervene, the more we risk worsening the situation. Yes, school grades are important, but this is not a reason for a discord in relations with a child. Discuss with him what is bothering him, what are the possible reasons for his failures and how you can help – he will probably even offer a solution to the problem himself. Separate associations and feelings: there is your child and there is a bad grade as a situation that can be solved. A bad grade will not change your attitude towards your child!
What to do if an excellent student slipped in his studies
Is your child an excellent student who suddenly started bringing home mediocre grades? Do not despair. Moving to new standards and high school requirements can be stressful for kids, and it's your job to help stay motivated, not push. Offer your help in preparation, support the child, discuss the possibility of changing the school, if it helps.
Deprivation of pocket money for bad grades: yes or no?
Deprivation of pocket money is not an option. Remember that financial independence is an important aspect of growing up! Grades should not be held hostage by gifts or holidays: this is not only unfair, but also useless, as it can completely deprive the child of joy and motivation. If you decide not to give your child a birthday gift because of bad grades, then he may decide that only his grades are important to you, and not he himself.
Payment for good grades
Nor is paying for good grades a smart strategy. This can distort the child's perception of learning, which will become a disgusting way to earn money, rather than an exciting way to new knowledge. Let's not mold a child into a person who achieves goals only for the sake of material benefits.
Motivation of the child
How to motivate a child to study? Start simple – maintain a trusting relationship. The main thing is to listen and do not judge! Make sure the child is not a victim of bullying or problems with the teacher. It may be worth discussing a change of school. Punishment without understanding the situation can destroy any motivation and make the learning process uninteresting and joyless.
The conclusion is simple: you should not indiscriminately scold a child for bad grades, it is important to look at the root of the problem and look for solutions together. Then both grades and relationships will be at their best.
