How to Explain Bad Grades to Parents

The consequences of a bad grade make it difficult to tell your parents.

Feeling poorly about getting a bad grade is one thing, but having to tell your parents about it can make it a whole lot worse. You may fear your parents will overreact, take away your freedom, or not let you explain. Maybe you have told your parents about a bad grade before and now dread a similar reaction, or maybe this is your first bad grade and you don't know how to deal with the disappointment or anger that your parents may express. Delivering any bad news can be a challenge, but there are some things you can do to soften the blow.

Instructions

1. Make plans for your discussion with your parents. Make sure you will be in a private place with plenty of time for conversation. Try to include both of your parents to avoid having to repeat the process (See Reference 2).

2. Have a clear idea of what you want to say and what you would like to gain from the conversation. For example, if you want them to be understanding, be sure to explain this to them before you tell them your news. Also, if you want their help to improve grades in the future, let them know. Plus, telling your parents your fears about their responses ahead of time may also soften their responses (See References 1, page 1).

3. Be completely honest about your bad grade. If you lie about it, it is possible your parents will find out and then you will be in more trouble than if you told them the truth.

4. Speak slowly and clearly; do not give into anger. If you get too angry, it is possible your parents will get angry in return. Be sure your parents understand what you mean, so they may better identify with your situation (See Reference 2).

5. Tell them what you intend to do to improve. This may help reassure your parents that you have learned your lesson and intend to fix the problem in a mature way.

6. Accept the consequences that are dealt to you. If you take any punishment your parents decide to mete out well, they may be easier on you in the future (See References 1, page 4).

Tips & Warnings

• Catching your parents at a bad time or when they are busy will make them less friendly to your situation.

References

• Teens Health: Talking to Parents or Other Adults
• University of Hawaii: Better Ways to Break Bad News