Navigating Parents' Evening: A Guide to Realistic Expectations and Empowered Parenting 🌟

Have you just had parents' evening or perhaps it's just around the corner?

As parents, we all eagerly anticipate parents' evening, a time when we get a glimpse into our child's academic world. It's a moment filled with hopes, dreams, and perhaps a tinge of anxiety. We understand – your child means the world to you, and their progress matters deeply.

We all want what's best for our children, right? But, parents' evening is not just about hearing what you want to hear; it's about understanding your child's journey, acknowledging their efforts, and identifying areas for growth together.

Questions to Ask Your Child's Teacher

Where do you think my child's strengths are?

Is my child where they should be in terms of progress/exam predictions?

What can I do at home to support my child with...?

I'm a bit worried about... please can I share this with you?

Who's the best person to speak to about...?

Tips for a Successful Parents Evening

It’s good to plan ahead and think about the questions you'd like to ask.

My suggestions below should help you have a positive and constructive conversation with your child's teacher.

Approach with an Open Mind: While it's natural to have specific expectations, approach parents' evening with an open mind. Your child's education is a partnership, and sometimes, the most valuable insights come from unexpected places.

Celebrate Progress, Big or Small: Not all victories are monumental, but every step forward is worth celebrating. Acknowledge your child's progress, however small it might seem, and appreciate the dedication they've put into their learning.

Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions about your child's performance, behaviour, or areas that need improvement. Engage in a dialogue with teachers to gain a comprehensive understanding of your child's academic journey.

Don't Compare: During the meeting, don’t feel tempted to compare your child with other children in the class.

Make Notes: Have a pen or pencil or your phone handy to make notes of anything useful. You may be dealing with quite a lot of information that you might want to refer back to in the future.

At Tutoring with Portia, we're here to support both you and your child. Our dedicated team of tutors are committed to nurturing a positive and supportive learning environment.

Remember, parents' evening is a stepping stone towards empowering your child and ensuring they have the best possible educational experience.