If you are a parent, then you know how nerve-wracking Parent’s Evening can be (sometimes called Parent-Teacher Consultations or even “Interviews”).  It is for me – and English is my native language!  How much more difficult it must be if you are speaking in a different language.

English learners have a lot to think about!  Grammar, vocabulary, idioms, phrasal verbs, and that’s without even mentioning all the skills like listening, reading, writing (learning a new script!) and speaking.  Add to that, the pressure of parenting often in a foreign country.  I take my hat off* to all of you amazing, persistent, courageous, wonderful parents!

So, when faced with an important conversation about the education and future of your child, what are your biggest fears and worries? You want to express yourself, but not make the teacher defensive.

Communicating Your Concerns

Am I able to communicate my concerns?  Can I ask the right questions to find out how my child is doing?  Will I sound rude if I keep saying “I want… I want”?  Will I go home frustrated because I didn’t say what I really needed to say? 

Do any of these questions sound familiar?

If you have ever felt this way, then please watch my new video, where I talk about:

• 8 polite ways to make requests
• 5 general questions to ask
• 3 ways to express concern or anger politely
• 4 ways to ask about your child’s Special Educational Needs provision

That makes a total of 20!  More than enough I would think!

You can also download a PDF document which has all the information plus a template to help you write the questions that are relevant to your child’s situation. 

This video and template will help you plan for your next parent teacher consultation (or interview) so that you don’t need to feel nervous and unprepared. No more frustration– just imagine yourself calmly and confidently expressing yourself and getting the answers you need!

*take my hat off – an idiom meaning: I have great respect for you, which I really, really do!

(Please note, there is an updated version of this video which can be found here)