Every Report Card Is Not an Ending, But a New Beginning!
As report cards arrive, the association urges families to judge children by their effort, not their grades, and wishes everyone a healthy, safe summer.
We have reached the end of another school year. We warmly congratulate all our children and young people experiencing the excitement of report cards, along with the teachers and families who have invested in their development.
A report card reflects the effort and academic progress a child has shown over the year, but it is never the sole measure of their worth, talents or future potential. Every child's pace of learning, interests and strengths are different.
We congratulate students who have had a successful school year for their determination and effort, and wish them continued success. To students who did not achieve the result they hoped for, we want to say: "Success is not a destination but a long journey of continued learning." Every new term brings new opportunities, and the summer holiday is a valuable chance to notice gaps, set new goals and develop further.
Let's Judge Our Children by Their Effort, Not Their Grades
One of the most important duties of parents is not to turn report-card day into a day of judgement. What our children need is love, understanding, trust and support. Comparisons, criticism or punitive attitudes prompted by a report card can damage a child's self-confidence. "Every child is unique; every child's developmental journey is their own." The right approach is to appreciate the effort children have shown, review their shortcomings together, and encourage them for the coming term.
Summer Holiday: A Time to Rest, Explore and Grow
The summer holiday is not just a period of rest but an important developmental process in which children can gain different experiences. We invite families to steer children away from long hours in front of screens and towards reading, sports, swimming, nature walks, cycling, music and art activities, summer camps and social events. Taking on age-appropriate responsibilities at home will also help build children's self-confidence and sense of responsibility. "A happy child is a child who plays; a thriving child is a child who explores."
A Healthy and Safe Holiday Is Everyone's Responsibility
During the summer months, it is vital to be attentive to children's health and safety. Sun protection should be observed during time spent outdoors, adequate fluid intake ensured, and prolonged sun exposure avoided especially during the hottest hours of the day. Children should always be supervised by an adult during sea and pool activities, with the necessary precautions taken for traffic, cycling and playground safety. "Children's fondest summer memories are the ones made while they felt safe."
Let us not forget that what our children need most is to feel accepted for their mistakes as much as their achievements. Raising them as happy, healthy, productive and confident individuals is our shared responsibility.
On this occasion, we wish all our students, teachers and families a peaceful, healthy, safe and happy summer holiday.
On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Dr. Cemal Mert, MD.
Chairman
