Report card: The kind of vigilance you need

It is 2013 and many parents are dealing with children who are smarter than them when it comes to some matters. The report card is one aspect of education where children often outsmart their parents or guardians. There are some few tips you can use as a parent to ensure that all is well. First of all it should be a rule that on the last day of school your child should hand over his report card as soon as they get home. Any delays will offer room for alterations. On receiving the report card, look out for the school stamp, the signature of the school head and be sure that it is printed on official paper and not a photocopy. So many students are in the habit of forging these documents and in this era it is not that difficult anymore. It is also important to note the school contacts especially the phone numbers that are indicated on the report card. Do not hesitate to call and inquire about the report card if you have any doubts. Take time to look at the report carefully to see that some figures have not been altered. It is not hard for a ‘3’ to become ‘8’ or for ‘16’ to turn into a ‘76.’ While examining the numbers, you might want to tally some of the figures to ensure that they add up. Where there are doubts, you can ask your child first for an explanation. Watch out for the body language. If they look cagey then that should be a sign for you to prod further. Always keep these report cards safely. Do not allow your child to snatch it briefly after you have looked at it. Lies often do not stand the test of time. But if you give back the report soon after looking at it then chances are that your child just got away with something sinister. Monitoring of your child’s performance should never be a one-off. Look out for drastic changes and in case of any second thoughts, have a talk with the teachers. Find time to sit with the school authorities so they can explain clearly what everything on the report card means. If multiple colours are used then find out what each one stands for. Let them explain the comments on academic performance and general behaviour. A report card shows performance of your child while at school. Accord it the importance it deserves.