If your student is having trouble with his grades, you need to find and focus on the specific problem areas. For example, if he finds language arts -- such as English -- difficult, determine the most challenging area. He may firmly understand spelling, but not grammar. Perhaps his grammar is fine, but paragraph structure and punctuation are difficult. Ask the student to make a list of the areas he thinks need improvement. Once you know what specific issues need to be addressed, you can help build his understanding from there.
What many parents may not know is the difference in potential learning styles. In fact, a student may have trouble with a subject simply because the lessons are not presented in a way that suits his style. There are three possible forms: visual, auditory and kinesthetic. Visual learners obtain knowledge through seeing information in books, slides or pictures. Auditory learners retain information the best when it is presented through speech, such as in a lecture. Kinesthetic learners essentially learn by active participation. For example, your student could show interest in mechanics or retain factual information by writing it down rather than reading or hearing. Unfortunately, schools tend to favor visual learning, so an incompatible learning style could very well be a source of your student's problem.
A tutor is a worthwhile investment when you find the right person. Preferably hire someone who has expertise in the subject in question, such as a college graduate. Peers can be helpful too, but the urge to socialize can trump the desire to focus on the task at hand. Next, set a regular schedule for tutoring sessions. Inform the person about your child's preferred learning style and show her a list of the subject areas that need improvement. An experienced tutor understands learning dynamics and can cater her lessons to fit those styles, providing the most effective assistance.
With proper assistance, your child's grades should improve. At this point, you may feel inclined to reward him in some form. However, the biggest mistake you can make is to reward the grades themselves. The purpose of taking these steps is to encourage better study habits and dedication. Ann Dolin, writer of "Homework Made Simple," explains that you must promote effort, not output. A simple compliment or congratulatory statement will acknowledge your student for his effort and motivate him to keep working. Dolin also recommends that you rarely -- if at all -- use cash as an incentive. Focus on praise instead.