Parents’ evenings can often feel like a whirlwind — ten minutes of polite smiles, scribbled notes, and a handful of “doing well” comments before you’re hurried on to the next classroom. But those few minutes are actually golden opportunities to really understand your child’s experience at school — beyond grades and test scores.
Too often, parents come away knowing how their child performs, but not how their child feels, learns, or is supported. The best conversations move from “How is my child doing?” to “How is my child being supported?”
Here’s our London Mums guide to the key questions that can help you make those precious ten minutes truly count.
1. How does my child seem day-to-day in class?
This question opens the door to understanding your child’s wellbeing. Are they engaged, confident, anxious, or distracted? Teachers often see sides of your child that you might not notice at home, so this is your chance to hear about the whole person, not just the pupil.
2. What kind of learner are they?
Every child learns differently — some thrive on visuals, others through talking or doing. Knowing your child’s learning style helps you support them at home in ways that make sense for them. It’s also useful to ask whether they’re working to their full potential or just coasting.
3. Where do they shine — and what challenges do they face?
This balances praise with progress. Ask for examples of moments your child impressed the teacher, but also where they stumble or lose confidence. It helps identify whether those challenges are academic, social, or emotional — and what might help overcome them.
4. What kind of support is in place if they’re struggling?
Whether your child needs extension work or a confidence boost, it’s important to know how the school steps in. Ask about support systems, interventions, or enrichment activities available. This shows you’re an active partner in your child’s learning journey.
5. How does my child interact with others?
Friendships and peer dynamics play a huge role in how children feel about school. Teachers can provide valuable insight into whether your child collaborates well, takes leadership, or might need help navigating social situations.
6. How can we best support learning at home?
This is where school and home meet. From reading tips to time-management ideas, ask what small actions at home will make the biggest difference. Teachers appreciate when parents want to collaborate, not just check up.
7. What’s one thing my child could focus on this term?
A simple, actionable goal makes it easier for your child — and you — to track progress without feeling overwhelmed. It could be “participate more in class” or “spend five extra minutes proofreading homework”.
Final thought
Parents’ evenings aren’t just about results; they’re about relationships. By asking thoughtful, open-ended questions, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of who your child is at school — not just what they achieve. And that’s the real key to helping them thrive.
Monica Costa founded London Mums in September 2006 after her son Diego’s birth together with a group of mothers who felt the need of meeting up regularly to share the challenges and joys of motherhood in metropolitan and multicultural London. London Mums is the FREE and independent peer support group for mums and mumpreneurs based in London https://www.londonmumsmagazine.com and you can connect on Twitter @londonmums
