Parents’ evening can go quickly, especially when you have concerns about your child’s reading or spelling. A few notes beforehand can help you leave with a clearer idea of what is happening and what comes next.
In this video, I share three things you can say to help get the answers you need.
The video includes on-screen captions.
1. Set the agenda early
If reading and spelling are your main concerns, say so at the beginning. You could try: “I’m worried about reading and spelling. Could we focus on those tonight, please?”
Bring one or two examples of what you have noticed. Perhaps your child can read a word one day but struggles with it the next, or spelling homework takes much longer than you expect. A specific example gives you and the teacher something clear to discuss.
2. Explain what happens after school
If you hear that your child is quiet, settled or managing in class, share what you see at home too. Both accounts matter.
You might say: “I’m glad they seem settled in class. At home, they’re exhausted, and getting homework out often ends in tears. Can we look at what might be making it so difficult?”
Describe what happens, when it happens and what seems to help. You do not need to arrive with an explanation or a diagnosis. Sharing those observations helps school understand more of your child’s day.
3. Ask for specific next steps
If the advice is to keep reading at home, explain what you already do and where your child gets stuck. Then ask what the next step will be.
For example: “We read together regularly, but they’re still finding it very hard. Which skill needs more support, and what could we try at school and at home?”
Try to leave knowing what support will be tried, who will arrange it and when you will talk again to review how it is going. If there is not time to cover everything, ask for a follow-up conversation.
A few questions to take with you
- What can my child do confidently, and where do they need help?
- What reading or spelling support is already in place?
- What will we try next, and how will we know whether it is helping?
- What would be useful and manageable for us to practise at home?
- When will we review this, and who should I contact in the meantime?
You do not have to ask every question in one appointment. Choose the ones that matter most for your child, and jot down the agreed next steps before you leave.
After the meeting
You are not being a difficult parent by asking for clarity. You are helping school understand how your child learns and what they find hard.
If you are unsure about the feedback afterwards, you are welcome to send me a message. Our Helping at home page also has practical reading and spelling ideas.
I offer individual reading and spelling support for families in Pocklington and the surrounding areas. A free consultation call gives us a chance to talk through your concerns and whether my support could help.