Behavior, emotion, and stress--as we’ve previously mentioned--play a big role in the grades a child achieves in the classroom. The correlation between grades and behavior differs from grade to grade. In a 2018 study published in Frontiers in Psychology, it was deduced that young children had a stronger relationship between peer relationships and grades than competencies in the subject being graded. 

In this blog post, we take a closer look at the influence behavior has on grades and vice versa. 

There has been some discussion about grading for skill vs. behavior and the resulting impact on children. The long-lived rules like cheaters getting an automatic failure or late papers being deducted grades may have negative impacts on a child’s learning and future grades.

It’s sometimes difficult for educators and administrators to see beyond the action to the underlying cause. If a child cheats or passes in a paper late, it could be construed as laziness, but there could be other elements at play, including stress, mental health, confusion on the subject matter, or other factors which delay timely workflow.

Forcing schools to change their views on curriculum and assessments is unlikely, but we can support children in preparation and planning. Planning ahead and being prepared for tests and assignments helps ensure children aren’t late or feel the urge to cheat on a test or paper.

Children who receive help and encouragement at home are shown to perform better at school. This falls under the correlation between grades and behavior because children who receive support from loved ones help build confidence–both self-confidence and confidence in the subject of study.

As a parent, you can help your child with grades and address their stress by taking an active interest at home and at school. Get involved with parent-teacher initiatives and keep a close connection with your child’s teacher and tutor so that you know what’s going on and whether your child needs extra help.

It’s important to understand that falling behind isn’t a sign of bad parenting. There are many reasons a child struggles in school. What’s important is acknowledging your child is struggling and offering the support they need to build that inner confidence and rebuild grades.

Seeking the help of a tutor is a great way to rebuild confidence in the classroom. Tutors can help your child understand the material in class, as well as teach organization and planning so they are always prepared.

At Club Z! Tutoring of Chicago North Shore, we consider more than academic needs alone. We specialize in providing individualized, in-home and virtual tutoring for students k - 12 in Northbrook, Glenview, Wilmette, Winnetka, Northfield, Kenilworth, and surrounding cities.

If you want your child to work on developing skills that will translate to improved grades and self-esteem, contact us today at: bbalatsos@clubztutoring.com. You can also reach us at 847-440-3440 and by visiting clubztutoringnorthshore.com.