Simple steps can help increase your child's confidence and performance at school.

It's that time of year again - report card time.

You want your child to do well in school, so what do you do when your child's report card doesn't reflect his or her full potential?

Responding quickly to the first sign of academic struggle keeps small setbacks from growing into learning obstacles. By addressing the issue early, parents can make a noticeable difference in a child's confidence and performance throughout the school year.

Now is the time to get your child working at peak performance. Sylvan Learning Center, the leading provider of in-center and live, online tutoring, offers the following tips for parents to find their child's "A" game:

1. Set expectations

Talk with your child before the school year starts, and explain that you won't be upset if he doesn't bring home all A's, but that you will be upset if he doesn't try his best.

2. Communicate with your child

Don't wait until report cards are issued to talk with your child. Ask how he is doing in school and what subjects he finds challenging.

3. Discuss your child's performance

A teacher can recommend ways to help your child or point out difficulties he is having, while his guidance counselor can provide progress reports.

4. Set goals for improvement

If your child is currently a C student, a goal of all A's may not be reasonable. However, creating a goal for each subject will help him stay motivated.

5. Create a personalized study plan

Your child should keep a schedule of all classes, assignments and key dates. As part of that schedule, he should include specific times for studying, projects and extracurricular activities.

6. Praise your child's successes

Praise can raise your child's confidence level and encourage him to tackle new challenges.

7. Seek outside help

Some children may need personalized instruction that is customized to fit their academic needs. Speak with your child's teacher about professional tutoring that will provide a scientifically proven program comprised of step-by-step instruction to help your child master missing skills and become an inspired learner.

For additional resources, such as a free report card guide for children in grades pre-kindergarten through 12, visit http://tutoring.sylvanlearning.com/report-card-guide.cfm or call 1-800-31-SUCCESS for more information.

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