Going back to school is nerve-wracking enough, but the last four years before college are the most stressful for teens. Every grade can make or break college acceptance and affect the rest of their lives.

Pressuring your student for top grades only adds to the problem. Lisa Huffman, assistant professor of educational psychology at Ball State University, recommends these steps to help you get your student through report-card time.

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1. Talk. Listen. Repeat. Before discussing report cards, ask a few questions: How does he feel about the school term? Is she worried about what her grades might be? Let your teen know that it’s ok to discuss any concerns any time. Keep the lines of communication open.
2. Take report cards seriously. While report cards don't tell the whole story, they do reflect how a student is progressing. Pay special attention to any grades, high or low, that come as a surprise.
3. Praise a good report card. Be sure to let your teen know you’re proud of her good work and accomplishments, especially if she’s followed through on a commitment to work hard. This is a good time to surprise her with a small gift or some special time.
4. Talk about a bad report card. Failure can be scary, but if your college-bound kid doesn’t do as well as expected, talk openly about it. Reassure him that poor grades don’t mean he’s a failure. Work with him to develop a plan of action with goals for improvement.
5. Set realistic goals. Going from a "C" to an "A" on the next report card might be a stretch, but getting a "B" might be within reach. Other realistic goals might be completing all homework on time or getting an "A" on a couple of assignments in a particular topic. Encourage your teen to do her best.
6. Don't assume an "A" reflects your teen’s best efforts. Lots of “A’s” and “B’s” may look good on a report card, but that doesn’t necessarily mean your child’s doing her best. Talk to her about the ease with which she completes her school work. If the work is too easy, it may not be challenging enough. If you think this is the case, schedule a conference with her teacher.
7. Look at your teen’s work regularly. Report cards only come out a few times a year, so review school work regularly, and pay special attention to grades and comments that go along with them. That way you can identify trouble spots before it’s too late.
8. Encourage good work habits and effort. Poor grades might be a reflection of lack of effort, not lack of ability. Make sure the house is calm and quiet when he’s studying so he can stay focused on the task at hand.
9. Be involved in the school. Kids who do well in school have parents who are actively involved in their children's education and their school. Volunteer at school or help your teen with her homework.

What are you doing to help your teen get ready for college? Send us your tips – we’d love to hear from you!

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