Tips You Can Teach

Your Child To Stand Out

And Make Good Grades

In School

If you want your child to make good grades, there are other things you can focus on -- things that aren't very obvious.

Teachers are human. Their grading practices are influenced by their expectations for and perceptions of your child.

Consequently, there are things your child can do to stand out above the crowd and make good grades in school. There are things your child can do to be viewed favorably by teachers and principals.

They include:

1. Be Positive. Most of us tend to avoid negative people. Not only can people like this affect your mood, but they can be emotionally draining. Teachers like positive students.

2. Be Kind To Others. Sometimes it’s hard to love the unlovable. Do it anyway. A kind word shared at the right moment will go a long way. Teachers enjoy students who are kind.

3. Smile Often. We gravitate toward happy people because we want to be happy. Teachers appreciate students who are happy.

4. Be Enthusiastic. Enthusiasm is contagious. When you're excited about something, others will be, too. Most teachers like students who are enthusiastic and tend to reward them with the benefit of the doubt and good grades.

5. Be Energetic. Eating properly, exercising regularly, and sleeping adequately will give you more energy. Having energy will help you accomplish more and make good grades. Teachers get energy from students who are energetic.

6. Be Reliable. Do what you say you’re going to do. Others will respect you when they know they can count on you. Teachers count on students who are reliable.

7. Follow The Rules. Rules (including laws) are designed to protect everyone. They help society function more effectively. When you think a rule is unfair, try to change it in a positive way. Teachers appreciate students who follow the rules.

8. Be Honest. A reputation for honesty is a sign of good character. Teachers respect students who are honest.

9. Display Good Manners. You might be surprised to know that very few young people say “please” and “thank you” anymore. In fact, if you really want to stand out, use “yes, sir” and “yes, ma’m” on a consistent basis. Teachers are amazed by students who display manners.

10. Accept Responsibility For Mistakes And Avoid Excuses. When you make an honest mistake, it’s best to admit it. People are generally forgiving, but also tend to resent those who don’t own up to their mistakes. When you admit an honest mistake, qualifying it with excuses will cast doubt on your sincerity. When you do have a legitimate excuse, it will carry more weight if you’re not well known for always making excuses. Teachers respect students who accept responsibility and avoid excuses.

11. Avoid Extremes In Behavior And Appearance. It’s fine to express yourself as an individual, but teachers and employers are generally leery of anyone who is too extreme in appearance, clothing, and behavior. This doesn’t mean you have to be like everyone else. It just means that if you want to be extreme, it may affect how you are viewed by others. Teachers are cautious of students who are too extreme.

12. Listen Carefully To Others. We have two ears and one mouth for a reason. It’s not enough to let others speak. Often, people aren’t really listening. They’re waiting for others to finish speaking so they can speak again. Teachers appreciate students who listen.

13. Praise Others Frequently. When was the last time you sincerely congratulated someone else? Do it and others will take notice. Teachers, like others, thrive on praise.

14. Defend The Weak And The Young. Sometimes people take advantage of those who are weaker or younger. Stand up for them. Teachers respect students who protect others.

15. Help The Poor And Downtrodden. It’s a struggle to go through life when your basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing aren’t being met. Ease the burden that others carry. Teachers have a special place in their hearts for students who help the underdog.

16. Show Compassion For Others. Put yourself in the position of others and it’ll be easier for you to understand what they must be going through. You’ll be less critical of them and have more compassion for them. Teachers appreciate students who are compassionate.

17. Chose Your Battles Carefully. It’s wise to consider whether you’re facing a big problem or a minor annoyance before taking action. Treating every situation like a big problem will cause you to waste a lot of time and energy unnecessarily. Teachers admire students who are wise. Being perceived as wise influences how teachers view you. It can also help you make good grades.

18. Speak out. Whenever you see a major injustice, speak out. And if you speak out using the principles listed above, your voice will be heard. Teachers respect students who are just.

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