A child looks at his certificate (symbolic image) Photo: Jonas Güttler/dpa
By Sara Orlos Fernandes
On Wednesday there were school leaving certificates for Berlin students. Grades are not always what parents and children expect. dr Roland Burghardt (58), chief physician at the Oberberg specialist clinic for children, explains how to deal with disappointment.
► check expectations
“Parents should check whether their expectations are not too high,” says Burghardt. Often more is expected of the child than one has achieved in school.
► see positive
The chief physician: “Even if the expectations are not met, one should see the positive and not only look for the disappointment.” If the children are also disappointed with their performance, parents should take this burden off them, give them courage and offer help. “Even if you’re not, it helps to tell them you’re proud.
► wait for the conversation
Shortly after the certificate is issued, you should take a deep breath if you are disappointed. The conversation should be sought when the feelings have subsided. Burghardt: “It is important not to approach the child with accusations, but to ask how it came about.”