To get the most out of parents evening, try and think beforehand what it is you want to know. For example:

• What are my child’s strengths?
• How is their behaviour?
• Are they keen to learn?
• Are they happy?
• Are they progressing as they should?
• Do they find anything in particular difficult, and how can I help with that?

Don’t forget that your child’s behaviour at school is probably very different than at home…some children excel out of sight of their parents and others can be far less outgoing than they are amongst family. Their teacher will be able to give you an accurate view of your child…as you have never seen them!

It is also important to remember that the meetings are a two way street…teachers need information too. They will be interested in how your child approaches his or her homework, what his opinion is of school as a whole and as individual subjects.

Often children have a “pet hate” subject that even the teacher does not know about, and extra attention in that area could change a negative into a positive, or encourage a blossoming interest. It also gives you a chance to discuss any major changes to the family situation, like moving house, seperation, or the death of a relative, that may affect your child´s academic performance.

Remember:

• Try not to take your children. This will enable you to concentrate on what is being said and you can both be more candid.

• Ask if there are any online resources that can get you more involved in what your child is learning about.

• Look carefully at their work…notice improvements over the year. Take some positive points home to your children.

So when Parents Evening rolls around, go prepared this time and get the most out of it, and you may finally be able to get a sensible answer to the eternal question, “What HAVE you been doing at school today?”