Description
Why Good Kids Get Bad Grades: What Parents Need to Know and Do
By Linda Silbert, Ph.D. and Alvin J. Silbert, Ed.D.
Foreword by Jennifer Cross, MD, Developmental Pediatrician, New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medicine
Why do capable, motivated children struggle academically? In this thoroughly updated and expanded edition, renowned educators Linda and Alvin Silbert reveal the real reasons behind poor grades—and show parents exactly how to help.
Nearly two decades after their groundbreaking first edition, the Silberts return with fresh insights for today’s families. While smartphones, social media, and a global pandemic have transformed childhood, the fundamentals of how children learn remain unchanged. This comprehensive guide cuts through the noise to address both timeless challenges and modern obstacles that stand between good kids and academic success.
Move Beyond Symptoms to Solutions
When children bring home disappointing grades, the easy assumption is that it’s due to laziness or a lack of motivation. But the Silberts demonstrate that struggling students are often hardworking and engaged—they’re simply facing unidentified obstacles. Through expanded case studies and decades of expertise, this book teaches parents to investigate root causes across four critical areas: physical issues (from vision problems to ADHD), social challenges (peer pressure, family discord), educational gaps (study skills, teacher-student mismatch), and psychological factors that influence learning.
Practical Strategies for Real Results
Packed with actionable advice, this guide explores how emotions and social dynamics affect school performance, examines the two primary grade determinants (tests and homework), and reviews the top 12 essential study skills. You’ll discover concrete strategies for addressing homework challenges, navigating issues beyond your child’s control, and creating an environment where learning thrives—even amid digital distractions and modern pressures.
Written in a clear, approachable style with empathy and expertise, Why Good Kids Get Bad Grades is an invaluable resource for parents, teachers, and anyone committed to helping children overcome academic struggles and reach their full potential.
Soft cover: 290 pages (appropriate)
Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.75 inches (appropriate)
Available in Paperback and Kindle
Kindle ISBN: 978-0-89544-579-7
Paperback ISBN: 978-0-89544-578-0
Reviews for the 2007 edition:
“I strongly recommend this book for any parent whose child is experiencing difficulties in school, or for any parent, for that matter. They may gain an insight to some of their own, possibly less than acceptable, parent-child thought or action patterns.” — John H. Manhold, Psychological Counselor and Past President, Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine
“This book actually causes you to think about how you interact with your children and things that you could say or do in various real situations. It is beautifully written with entertaining anecdotes that you want to remember and repeat to your friends.” — Venkatesh Garani, parent
“I wish Drs. Linda and Al Silbert had written this informative book when I was teaching. I would have recommended it to all those parents who wanted and needed help with raising their children. Their advice is “user friendly” for parents of all ages and educational levels.” — E. Purcigliotti, NYS, K-12 educator
“All parents want to raise happy, successful kids. With the S+T+R+O+N+G method, parents can improve communication, encourage their children, and guide them towards achievement.” — Marc E. Childs, M.D., Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, New York Medical College
“Drs. Linda and Alvin Silbert use the wisdom gained over many years of experience to help parents nurture their children to become better students and, more importantly, to lead happier and more fulfilling lives. By seeing the complete child, Why Bad Grades Happen to Good Kids focuses not just on better grades, but on a better life for your child.” — Kevin T. Kalikow, M.D., Psychiatrist, Author of Your Child in the Balance
“Self-esteem is critical to success in life. Linda and Al share practical action steps parents can take now to promote a positive image-whether the child is a toddler or teenager.” — Daniel F. Joynt, Pd.D., Professor of Counselor Education, Western Connecticut State University
“Real-life advice on how your child can do better in school, in language we can all understand. An excellent book.” — Linda Selvin, Executive Director, New York Branch, International Dyslexia Association
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