Conversations at school.

To keep informed about your child's development, the school organizes regular talks with you. What different types of parent talks are there? How do you prepare well for these school talks?

Parent evening or information evening

For a parent evening, the school often invites all parents. The director, teacher, or mentor gives practical information about the school year. During a parent evening, you can meet other parents, ask questions, or talk with the teacher.

Sometimes a parent evening has a specific theme, like bullying or social media. Usually, the school then invites someone to talk about this topic.

10-minute talk

During a 10-minute talk, you discuss how your child is doing at school. This talk is with the teacher, mentor, or subject teacher of your child. It is not only about your child’s grades but also about how your child feels in class.

Other parent talks with school

Sometimes there is another reason to have a talk at school. For example, if you have a complaint about the school or if your child needs extra support. The mentor or teacher of your child contacts you for a talk, or you ask for a talk yourself.

In some situations, the internal support coordinator, care coordinator, school leader or the partnership tailored education is involved. It is important to prepare well for these parent talks at school.

How do you have a conversation at school?

Good preparation is half the work. Here are some tips for preparing parent meetings:

• Talk with your child beforehand about how school is going and write down what you want to ask, tell, or raise.
• Ask questions during the meeting if you do not understand something. Write down new agreements.
• Do not forget to write down the follow-up appointment. After the meeting, make a short summary for yourself. This way you keep an overview.
• It is important to keep your child informed about the meetings at school. Tell your child in a way that suits them.