You may not be aware of how the parent/teacher meeting works and for most parents it can cause some anxiety.

• Prepare questions - If you do have any questions take a bit of time and prepare a list as you may forget it during the meeting otherwise. You may have reservations about your child’s reading or writing so this is your opportunity to bring it up. Don’t write down too many questions as chances are you won’t get to ask them all, but three things should suffice. Remember that if there is any issues you can ask for a meeting again in a few weeks to further check in.
• Chat to your kiddie - Having a chat with your child will allow you to find out if there is anything your child wants mentioned at the meeting. Perhaps your kiddie is worried about maths or stressed so this gives you a chance to talk to their teacher about it. Remind your child you can only help if they let you know if there are any issues, in most cases, there aren’t but it is better to be fully aware than unaware.
• Arrive on time - This is a big one as if you are late you may lose your slot altogether so the best advice anyone can give you is to arrive at least five minutes before you are due to see your child’s teacher. You may have to wait a little, but it is better to arrive early than late!
• Don’t over think - Easier said than done as some parents are natural worriers but we are all in the same boat. Don’t fret unless you must and go in with positive thoughts.
• Listen - This is vital, you may have plenty to say but remember your child’s teacher is the one who is in school with your youngster and knows how they are doing. Take a few minutes to listen and perhaps your list of questions will be answered.
• Ask questions - Of course, you want to know everything about your kid but keep the questions to the point as time is not on your side with parent teacher meetings. Seek answers to the things that are worrying you and give the teacher a chance to respond.
• Be honest - Being honest is important, there is no point telling your child’s teacher that your child never watches TV or that they read everyday of the week if that is not true. A teacher needs the honest information in the same way you require honest answers from them. If your child needs to work on their reading perhaps there is a reason why and you should take heed of the advice. Don’t forget to thank your child’s teacher for their time when leaving either.