Dyslexia runs in families and this means that quite often if a child is dyslexic the parents often have dyslexia too but usually don’t have a diagnosis! Parent teacher consultations can feel overwhelming to some parents and it is common for parents to tell me that they find it really difficult to articulate their worries and concerns in the short time they have. Here are my top tips for parents to manage parents evening positively!
- Go prepared. Write down a list of questions or things you want to ask during your meeting. Take this into the meeting with you!
- Take a pen into the meeting with you as well as your planned list. This way whilst your child’s teacher is talking if something pops into your mind you want to ask, you can jot it onto the piece of paper so you don’t forget. You can also take notes or write down anything you need to remember your child’s teacher has shared.
- Don’t be scared to ask teachers to explain ‘teacher talk’ or terminology. Sometimes this can make us feel that the people in front of us are way more qualified… they are in their area but remember you are the expert of your own child and you will have an insight that your child’s teacher doesn’t. Your child’s teacher is likely going to be grateful for you sharing that insight and it will enable the teacher to see your child from a different perspective.
- If you’ve got specific concerns regarding Dyslexia, or something else, go prepared with a list of examples. You then have the evidence to support those concerns you are raising. Maybe the example is in a piece of homework, or in some spellings that they’ve been practising or maybe it’s a practical example such as you have noted at football practise they’re not able to follow instructions clearly.
- Remember, teachers are human! They are understanding and they have empathy with you as well as your child and are there to help you.
For More advice and tips then consider joining the Dyslexia Supporters Lounge and find me on social channels.