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Understood - For learning and thinking differences

How to Approach Student Reports – A parent’s perspective

1. I try to avoid report surprises

At the start of the school year, I write all the important dates in my calendar, including when the reports come out. This way I’m not surprised when they arrive at my house.  

There’s one other important step I take so I won’t be surprised when I see my kids’ grades. I try to build strong relationships with their teachers, so we stay in touch about progress. This is especially important for my child who has a PLP. 

2. I talk with my kids about the value of reports

Before reports arrive, I talk about how I view them with my kids. I see a report as a snapshot — not the whole story — of my kids’ progress throughout the semester and year. 

I also talk about the overall value of the report without putting too much emphasis on the levels. I remind my kids that reading the teacher comments in their reports is just as helpful as seeing their levels and can provide good insight. 

For example, my oldest son has average grades but really good relationships with his teachers. I celebrate the whole picture in addition to talking about their report. 

3. I recognise the effort my kids made

It’s important to view the report as more than just a reflection of final academic performance. I try to see the bigger picture and recognize the effort and progress my kids are making.  

For instance, one of my kids struggles with some big concepts in math. So we make every effort to celebrate his progress on the smaller ones. Those successes might not be visible in the final levels. That’s why we need to recognize those milestones along the way and praise his hard work and dedication.  In other words, I give the kind of praise that builds self-esteem. 

4. I help my kids move forward and plan for what’s next

I help my kids see their report as a road map. We look at the report together, and plan for where they might need extra help.  

For example, my son receives support for executive function challenges. I help him understand that it’s OK to make mistakes or have setbacks — they’re just part of the learning process. 

I also let him know that I understand his challenges but believe in his abilities. I use the report to come up with a plan to tackle these challenges and set goals for the future. These discussions help teach important life skills like coming up with a plan and sticking to it. 

And last, but not least, I remind my kids that no matter what levels or comments come home, every child learns at their own pace. Every report is a chance to reflect, learn, and grow. And every setback can be reframed as an opportunity to help my kids move forward.