It is a big deal to go below 12 credits…housing and financial aid rely on you being full time.
The worst thing academically is to fail classes. I would have your child talk to his adviser and also the Counseling Office.
Can he get tutors for his tough classes?’
Does the college have a study skills office that can help?:
keep in mind that you may not have to pay for the courses but you still may have to pay for housing.
I would suggest some of these tips: http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-life/1920853-college-is-a-step-up-from-hs-16-tips-on-doing-well-in-college.html