How to Keep Your Child from Obsessing Over Academic Success

Almost everybody in America knows what a GPA is. The Grade Point Average, a standard of measuring academic achievement in the United States, unfortunately, tends to be seen as a definition of a student’s intelligence and potential. What is meant to measure achievement can be a destructive and discouraging system for many students. If your child is obsessed with getting good grades, this can be harmful to their creativity, their individuality, and their mental health.

Why Do Kids Get Obsessed with Getting Good Grades?

Many times, kids are obsessed with getting good grades to please their parents. You may have had a reward system for when your child got good grades – you may have celebrated their good grades or punished them for not meeting your expectations. Naturally, a child wants their parent’s love and approval.

If you can in good conscience, say that your child’s obsession with getting good grades has nothing to do with your influence, there may be other factors at play. They may have unrealistic ideas about what is needed for them to pursue a specific career. There may be a culture of grade obsession in their classroom or at their school, even coming from their teachers. Talk to your child to see if they can identify reasons why they’re striving for high grades.

How Can You Stop Your Child from Obsessing Over Good Grades?

Help your child refocus by emphasizing the development of a good work ethic and a positive attitude. Teach your child that hard work in the end is what counts; so that regardless of the grade they receive, they can never be disappointed knowing the effort they expended. 

Every person has their strengths and weaknesses, and tests and grades aren’t always the best measure of one’s knowledge or potential. Remind your child that it’s not about what they know, but who they are as a person that truly matters. Of course, it’s important to teach your child to work hard and always do their best. While grades are an important factor in their academic success, it doesn’t define them or their abilities. Their worth isn't measured by a number on a report card- grades are just one small piece of their journey, not the whole story. Growth, resilience, and unique strengths matter far more than any test score.

If you or your child need help navigating their educational experience, a specially trained professional can help. Call my office today to schedule an appointment.