You have high expectations of your child and know that they are highly capable. So, what do you do when their grades start to slip? No need to panic as this is actually quite common. You might notice a dip in motivation, or it might be a specific subject that your child is struggling with. Either way, if you intervene early, you can get your child back on track. Here’s what you should do if your child is falling behind in school.
1. Get on the Same Page
The first thing you should do is talk to your child. Tell them what you’ve observed, remind them of your expectations, and ask them how you can help. It’s normal for kids to go through an academic rough patch; when you intervene early, it usually doesn’t become a problem in the long run. Ask your child if there’s something holding them back- are they tired, anxious, unmotivated, or distracted? Is there an issue with the classroom environment that’s preventing them from understanding the material? Getting your child’s perspective can help you identify the next steps you need to take.
2. Consider Social-Emotional Health
Social-emotional health is important at all stages of life; it affects how we think, feel, and act and determines how we handle stress and make decisions. When students struggle with mental health, everything else becomes more difficult. Balancing life’s demands can be challenging and life transitions like starting a new school can really throw some students off. If social or emotional factors are getting in the way of your child’s ability to succeed in school, you should talk to your doctor or school counselor. Additionally, you should consider your child’s overall health, including diet, sleep, and exercise. If your child isn’t getting enough sleep or nutrients, they may lack the energy they need to reach their potential. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your child’s health.
3. Talk to Professionals
You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Talk with your child’s teachers and principal about what’s going on. Teachers can give you information on their teaching methods, classroom expectations, assessment style, and discuss specific ways your child can succeed in class. Meet with the school principal to learn about other ways you can help your child get back on track. The school might employ an educational support specialist, or you could look into hiring a private tutor. Private tutors can help assess the individual needs of the student and give personalized instruction that isn’t realistically available in large classrooms.
Lastly, focus on moving forward as a team. Make sure your child knows that you are there to support them. Sometimes students need to be reminded that their academic work is a challenging yet rewarding feat. Encourage your children to think about their goals and remind them that their hard work is going to pay off.
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