Questions to ask at a parent-teacher meeting

5 questions about learning

1. What is my child doing well in?
2. Which subject or skill needs the most help?
3. Does my child finish classwork on time?
4. How does my child read compared with the class?
5. What should we focus on until the next PTM?

5 questions about speaking and confidence

1. Does my child answer questions or speak up in class?
2. Does my child ask for help when stuck?
3. How does my child do in show and tell or oral activities?
4. Does my child speak in English in class?
5. Has my child taken part in any assembly or stage activity?

5 questions about friends and behaviour

1. Who does my child play with at break?
2. How does my child get along with others?
3. Does my child follow class rules?
4. Have you seen my child upset or left out?
5. How does my child handle losing or making mistakes?

5 questions about homework and home

1. How much time should homework take?
2. How can I help without doing it for them?
3. Which books or activities do you recommend at home?
4. Is my child organised with their bag and books?
5. How can I best reach you if I have a concern?

5 questions to ask your child before the PTM

1. What do you like most about your class?
2. Which subject is hard for you?
3. Who are your friends?
4. Is there anything you want me to tell your teacher?
5. What do you think your teacher will say about you?

What should I ask at a parent-teacher meeting?

Ask what your child does well, what needs help, how they behave and speak in class, who their friends are, and how you can help at home.

How do I make a short PTM useful?

Prepare three or four questions, write down the answers, agree on one thing to work on, and ask how to contact the teacher later.

What if the teacher says my child doesn't speak up in class?

Ask in which situations, then practise speaking at home with small, regular chances. Our guide on shy children has ideas.