How do you know if your child is having trouble in school? Look for changes in her behavior and attitude. If her grades suddenly drop or if she seems to be struggling with a subject or subjects, talk to her and contact her teacher. If you suspect a problem, don't wait for a report card to come home because this may be a weeks or months into the school year.
Monitor homework and graded work that comes home. Talk to your daughter about the good and troubling things you see. Offer praise for good grades or improved work, but let her know you notice a slide in work quality or if she seems to be struggling with a subject. This is also a good time to talk to the teacher and find out when tests are coming up and when they will be returned. Do this either by calling or maintaining e-mail contact with your daughter's teacher.
Unfinished work also may be a sign your daughter is struggling. Children having a tough time with the assigned work may just give up out of frustration. If you notice this, make sure you are there to help with homework or perhaps find a tutor who can help. Do not do the work for your child, just offer enough help so that she understands the subject matter and the assignment.
Standardized test scores also will be an indication of whether or not your daughter has a problem in school. The tests vary across the country, but all states have them to measure schools and students. Look at your daughter's results. If you see a problem talk to the teacher about what needs to be done to make improvements.
Schools often have programs to help children who are struggling, but the saying that "it takes a village" applies. Don't hesitate to talk to your child and to his teacher. Teachers appreciate involved parents, but don't go into discussions with the teacher in attack mode. Focus on helping your son with his struggles and coming up with a plan. Avoid going to the principal before talking to his teacher. This will not be perceived well either by the teacher or the principal.