How to Punish a Teenager With Bad Grades
As teenagers get older, they earn privileges such as driving, dating and using a cell phone. Some teenagers may have trouble balancing their new-found independence with schoolwork, and their grades suffer as a result. Parents should encourage good school performance and establish consequences for bad grades. Unfortunately, the wrong approach may cause a teen to rebel, withdraw or cheat in an attempt to bring grades up. If you set up expectations and consequences ahead of time in a contract, your teen will know what to expect and will appreciate his responsibilities and privileges.
Instructions
Meet as a family to discuss the expectations for grades and decide on a ̶0;rules contract.̶1; Meeting ahead of time will prevent hasty, unexpected punishments later. Meeting as a family will prevent disagreements between spouses. Your teen will appreciate meeting as a family, since it shows you value her input. Decide on a fair grade point average (GPA) that fits your teen̵7;s abilities and past performance in school. Clearly state the grade expectations in writing, e.g. ̶0;You will earn a 'B' average or higher each marking period/semester.̶1; Decide, as a family, on a fair consequence for not meeting the grade expectations, and put the consequence in writing. For example, ̶0;If you get lower than a 'B' average, you must attend the after-school tutoring program offered at school.̶1; Decide, as a family, on a fair privilege that the teen will earn as a result of good grades. For example, ̶0;If you get a 'B' average or higher, you can do your homework/study whenever you want and don't need to attend the tutoring program.̶1; Write a clause into the contract that allows you to update it later on, if needed. Sign the contract and have your teen/spouse/anyone else involved sign it.