Psychologist urges Turkish parents to see school reports as more than grades

Psychologist Begüm Özkaya warned that report cards should not be viewed solely as a measure of academic performance. She emphasized that responsibility for a poor grade lies not only with the student but also with family and school, and that parents should avoid blaming or shaming children.

Özkaya advised parents to begin conversations with praise, investigate the reasons behind low marks, and decide together with the child how to improve. She stressed that the first reward should be verbal – saying “well done” – before offering age‑appropriate material rewards, noting that expensive gifts do not enhance learning.

She also highlighted the importance of allowing children rest during holidays, suggesting that homework be postponed until after the break so that vacations serve their intended purpose of relaxation.