A few weeks ago Lael asked me what an F was on her test. I explained that it meant she failed. That she had too many wrong answers. She was very upset about this. I emailed her teacher and found out that the class had taken a unit math test and many of the kids did poorly. It annoys me because that means that some kids did fine. Mine was not one of them. Her teacher explained that Lael KNEW this stuff but rushed and made simple mistakes. This annoys me as well. It doesn’t matter what she KNOWS. If she can’t pass her tests it doesn’t matter. She assured me that she was going to go over the test with the class and have them retake it.
Along with the report card a progress folder was sent with class assignments and tests from the past quarter. Included was that test and the retake. She went from an F to a B. Even then she made silly mistakes. She does very well in spelling. Some tests she got every word correct plus the bonus words.
Maybe I have to come to the realization that this is who she is. She does just enough. She has two smart parents and she is fully capable but I know in my gut that she can do better. Do I push her? Is this something she has to want for herself?
I asked her teacher to send extra work home so that I can practice with her. Part of me doesn’t even want to bother because she will mumble and groan the entire time.
Have any of you had this experience? A smart child who doesn’t seem to focus and apply themselves?
I am at a loss. I don’t want a child that is just getting by. What makes it even worse is that she is compared to her sister. The one that gets Above Average marks on every report card. The one that is doing math and reading at a grade above where she should be.
I know every child is different but they are equally smart. What should I do?
Help!
