VANCOUVER -- Many kids come home with their final report card. So, what if there are some areas of concern or even failure? Here's how to handle the negatives in a positive way.
For Janice Denby and her eight-year old daughter Holly -- the countdown is on.
Mom Janice Denby says, "the day the report card comes out and there's that excitement, that nervousness. But you do think that even though it really isn't about the parent - you still feel a bit of I guess you could say, anxiety."
Janice says she's an active parent at her daughter's school. Still -- she found it a little surprising when.
"On her last report card, they were talking about journal writing, which again comes as a little shock - even though I'm here."
Shelley Brett is a District Helping Teacher with the Surrey School Board. Brett says, "the first thing that's really important is that we need to be very respectful and patient with our children."
Even though it's the last report card of the year -- Brett says take the time to find out more about your child's progress.
"I think you do have an opportunity at this time of year to go in and talk to the classroom teacher if you have concerns, so we can discuss ways to support your child's learning over the summer."
Gather solutions from the school -- but that also means having a one-on-one meeting with your child. Set goals along with them -- like coming up with a study plan. Turn off the T-V -- and help them to do more reading over the summer. But Brett warns -- don't overdo it.
"It's not always just about - you know - drilling them. For example, which it can have its value and it can help support but you don't want to do it. So, that it's a drill and kill kind of mentality."
Janice says since the last report card -- Holly is better at writing in her journal. But -- it's also been important to help Holly recognize her strengths.
"Make sure to say to your child like, you've worked so hard on say math this year and that little project you've done - just not to make it a negative experience for kids."
And -- seek out help for your child. Ask teachers if there are extra resources available in the school -- or perhaps supplement your child's education with tutoring.
Thursday June 29, 2006
