A Child Is More Than Their Grades

A Child Is More Than Their Grades

A grade shows the result, but not everything your child knows or how they feel. Discover how to ask questions that open the door to learning.

A single number can spark a strong reaction, even though it doesn’t explain how your child arrived at that result. They may have understood the material but been thrown by a particular question; perhaps they need more time or a different way to prepare. Instead of jumping to conclusions, ask what they found easy and what surprised them. You’ll learn more than the number in their notebook can tell you, and you can decide whether they need more practice, a conversation with the teacher, or simply some time to process their feelings.

Interested in this topic? Read more: How to Talk to Children About Grades Without Yelling or Blame Want to find out where you stand personally? Take a short test at the end of the page and gain a better understanding.

How does this apply to you? Choose the answers that describe you best:

Imagine your child comes home with a worse grade than you expected. What is the first thing that crosses your mind?

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How would you describe the silence that follows the announcement of a bad grade?

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Which words best describe your inner dialogue in such situations?

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If you could choose a metaphor for academic failure, what would it be?

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How do you react when a child does not show remorse or interest in a bad grade?

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What tone should a conversation about grades have, in your opinion?

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Which sentence would bother you the most if it were said to you as a child?

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How would you describe your approach to mistakes?

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When do you feel that a child is most attentive to what you are saying?

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Which image best represents your parenting goal?

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How to talk to children about grades without yelling and blame.

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