Parents evening can be a tricky thing when you have children at either a primary school or secondary school level, and it's very normal to feel a bit nervous before chatting with your children's teacher. Most of us have anxious memories of our own school days, and sitting down with a teacher can bring those feelings back.
Preparation is key to getting the most out of your appointment. Before you go, think about what you'd like to know. Are there specific subjects your child is struggling with? Have there been any changes at home that might affect their learning?
During the meeting, don't be afraid to ask questions. Good questions include: What are my child's strengths? Where do they need to improve? How can I support their learning at home? Are they happy and well-settled in school?
Take notes during your appointments so you can refer back to them later. This is especially useful if you have multiple children and are attending several meetings in one evening.
After parents evening, discuss the feedback with your child in a positive way. Focus on the good things their teachers said, and work together on any areas for improvement.