Your child’s first report card will be arriving soon. Whatever the results, and whatever your reactions, remember that the first report card of the year is not the final word on school achievement.

Chances are, your child will have some marks to cheer about and others that will cause concern or frustration. That’s fine, because this report card is like a check-up—it will tell you how your child is progressing, how new material is being handled, and whether there are advances or declines from last year.

Even if there are some not-so-nice surprises, there’s plenty of time to make adjustments.

Poor grades? Five Tips to Keep in mind:

1. There’s still lot’s of time to make a difference. Don’t become disheartened.
2. A low grade today is a red flag, highlighting an area that needs attention. With time and support, your child can improve.
3. Read the teacher’s comments, because they reveal much more than the actual mark. They can often provide insight into any obstacles to your child’s academic success.
4. All children have potential to change, adapt, unlearn, or re-lean. Through cognitive development, children have the potential to change the way they think about a subject…and grow smarter. In fact, this process of cognitive development is Oxford Learning’s founding philosophy.
5. Take note and then take action! With the right plan, great improvements can occur—no matter how fast the year flies by. It’s your child’s potential (what he or she is capable of achieving) that really matters, not what has been achieved so far.