That's one of my boys in the baby photo avatar. Read about him and school on my website - he would rather go fishing than study but he is a happy boy who will be a success - but on his own terms, he will not stress about what teachers think. If learning difficulties/dyslexia are the problem trust me 99% of teachers have no idea how to manage it. They just blame the kid. Email me and I can give you more info on this if you like.

http://www.babycoachonline.com.au

Rosemary

Does he have dyslexia or learning difficulties? does he like to read books or magazines other than school books? If he does that is a good sign, I have 3 boys with various learning difficulties and personalities over the years, you can encourage and communicate with school - but you can't force them, he will do it when he's ready. just send more info about his grades over the years and what is he good at generally. It is always better to start by prasing and encouraging him in what he is good at than constantly going on at  him about the 'bad' stuff. Once he feels you are understanding where he is coming from more, he may open up why he is not going so well at some subjects, or he may be depressed or worried this will show in his school work.

Cheers Rosemary

PS My maths teacher said I was hopeless and would never succeed at anything - I have been a registered nurse and midwife for 30 years and have my own business. So be your son's friend first.

I find it's because my daughter (12 going on 13) doesn't understand the work. While I cook dinner she sits at the kitchen bench and I help her understand the work. I don't give her the answers, just help her. She recieved high Achievements but has since slipped back to SA's (satisfactory achievements) So her report reward is in serious jepardy if she doesn't lift her game! We give our kids a reward for improving their grades or maintaining their level. AJ will get the cheaper reward because her grades slipped but Nikki and Lachie will get the higher end because they both improved int he areas we asked them too. I hope this helps. We also consult with the teachers were ever possible so we understand the work they are doing.

Cheers Raven

Make study fun and help him out. As parents it's our duty to help our children out when we can, it shouldn't be a chore to sit with your child and help them with their homework. I'm not talking about doing it for them but really helping and explaining how to get the answer by theirselves.