Report cards are a turning point in the school year for many students – often associated with mixed feelings: pride in good performance, disappointment or even fear of bad grades.
An open ear for children and young people
In these emotionally charged times, "Nummer gegen Kummer" (Number Against Sorrow) is there for young people, offering support through its children's and youth helpline and online counseling. Feedback on their performance in the first semester can put a lot of pressure on adolescents. Many report fears of negative consequences or their parents' reactions. It is important that everyone involved supports children and young people and takes any potential burdens seriously.
Helpline for children and young people
: 116 111
Helpline Ukraine: 0800 500 225 0
The children's and youth helpline and online counseling service (www.nummergegenkummer.de) of "Nummer gegen Kummer eV" are available throughout Germany and offer children and young people the opportunity to share their worries. Trained volunteer counselors take the time to address questions and problems related to school reports or other areas of life. The counseling is easily accessible, anonymous, and confidential.
Support for parents
The "Number Against Worries" helpline also offers support for parents who are unsure how to deal with the stress surrounding report cards. Competent advisors are available on the parent helpline to discuss how to have constructive conversations and find helpful ways to cope with the situation.
Parents' Helpline
: 0800 111 0550
Helpline Ukraine: 0800 500 225 0
Nationwide work
The "Number Against Sorrow" operates nationwide. In Bremen, the Bremen Child Protection Association provides the infrastructure, trains the volunteer counselors, and offers them professional support in their work.
For 70 years, the German Child Protection Association (Kinderschutzbund) has been actively shaping child protection in Bremen. It operates the Child Protection Center counseling service, a violence prevention project in schools, the Youth and Children's Rights Office, and the "Strong Parents – Strong Children" parenting courses. As part of Bremen's child protection strategy, it is a partner for supervised visitation and the child and youth protection hotline. With dedicated full-time and volunteer staff, the Bremen branch of the German Child Protection Association is committed to the protection and participation of all children, young people, and families through its various services. The German Child Protection Association is an active advocate for children's rights.
Source: German Child Protection Association, Bremen State Branch, Press Release, January 22, 2025