Question
Dr.Braccio: My son is going to karatay bayan escort the middle school next year. He’s well liked, fairly disorganized, and basically an average student without much effort. His teacher is worried he’ll get lost in the middle school without being better organized and looking after himself without as much teacher support. She also says he’s not working near his potential. I agreed but am aware I’ve never done much to push him at all and have been happy with his average grades. Now I’m worried and want some advice to help him do better next year. His father and I are divorced but want the best for our son. What do you suggest we do?
Answer
It is positive there is still time this school year to begin some of the suggestions I will make and that you and his father can work together to help him.
His teacher is helpful to advise you that he needs to be more responsible for himself in middle school. Many children have a rude awakening when they go from a nurturing elementary to a demanding middle school environment.
The following are suggestions to help him now and in the future to prepare himself for school, achieve to his potential, and be responsible for his homework.
1. Specific study times at home each school evening and designated weekend time as you feel necessary. 2. Turn off the TV, radio, electronic games, and other distractions during study time. 3. Use a daily planner. 4. Encourage him to do well and applaud his successes. 5. Look at his effort grades on his report card before achievement. How hard he is trying is more important than the grade. 6. On a daily basis, review his assignments, daily planner and give support and direction as needed. 7. If the need arises, make available academic support to overcome areas of underachievement. At present, this does not appear to be an issue and hopefully will not become one. 8. Make regular contact with his teachers to better determine how he is doing and if his planner is up to date and accurate.
You will find as he becomes better organized and in a good learning routine that he will predictably take ownership for his academic performance and personal organization. At that time, with your continued support and his ever greater success in school, he will on his own want to achieve to his potential.
Your job as a parent is to give him the tools to use to do as well as he can consistent with his ability. You appear ready to take on this role and I strongly support your efforts.
Any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me directly.