Receiving report cards can be an anxious time for children. Will my parents be proud or my results? Will they be disappointed? 

Research tells us, that this is the main concern for most children when reports cards arrive home. Children of all ages take their cues from you, their parents. So your reaction to the school report can impact the way they see themselves not only as learners, but as people. As parents, you may have mixed feelings around the report card. You will feel proud if they have performed well but experience some angst if your children aren't progressing as you had hoped. With the added impact of Covid-19 absences, brings greater uncertainty for both children and parents.

Before reading your child's report card, the following questions may help you to best support your child.

• Are your expectations for your children realistic and inline with their ability? If they are set too high, it may deter a child from seeing themselves as a learner. If they are set too low, children have nothing to strive for.
• Do you believe that children learn at different rates? Not all children develop and learn at the same pace, so avoid comparing your child to their siblings, relatives or friends' children, or even yourself when you were a child. Instead, look for the progress and growth your child has made.
• Are you willing to safeguard your child's self-esteem? Self confidence is a pre-requisite for learning. When reflecting upon report card grades and comments, remember the impact your words and actions can have.

Report card tips!

• Focus on your child's strengths as a first point of reference. Then move into areas for improvement and ask their opinion on how they feel they learnt throughout the Semester. Their voice as learners matters.
• Take into account your child's effort and attitude to learning. Our report cards at MMCC provide feedback around the positive learning behaviors at our College. Ask your child if they received a certificate or ribbon this term? This is another indicator of success your child has had.
• Focus on both academic success/growth and the broader picture of your child's progress as a member of a social setting. How your child interacts with others will influence their happiness and well-being. Skills of independence and co-operation are highly valued in our society.

Bridget Rillie
Assistant Principal Wellbeing Junior