How to Handle Parent/Teacher Night

It can't be avoided. We asked our members for their best tips to help survive the night. Here’s one response.

"His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy…" Eminem may as well have been writing about one of the most dreaded nights of the year: parent/teacher night!

Now, parent/teacher nights can be a very stressful time for students, as this is the evening that all is finally exposed to your parents.

To assure that the meeting runs smoothly and that everyone is happy afterwards, there are few things that are absolutely essential in the lead up to these fearful nights.

Pay close attention to the following:

1. Don’t give your teacher any reason to complain about you.

The most important thing to do before a parent/ teacher night is ensure you've been good at school, so that when your parents are talking to your teacher, your teacher has only positive things to say about you.

If you're a gem at school (like me) who's good in class and handing work in on time, you have absolutely nothing to worry about. But, if you're not exactly a model student, maybe for the weeks and days leading up to the night, put 100 per cent into everything you do in the classroom. This way, your teacher and, most importantly, your parents, can be pleased with your progress!

2. Prepare your parents.

Another crucial thing to remember is to talk to your parents beforehand and be completely honest with how you've been doing at school. Yes, even if you've been doing poorly.

This way, there are no surprises during the night, and they will be glad you've told them truth about how you're really doing.

3. Promise to get better.

Yes! Your next parent/teacher night doesn't have to be scary like all the rest. Listen to the advice that comes your way, and do things differently.

Congratulations to Michelle for winning this week's writing challenge: How to Handle Parent/Teacher Night. Michelle wins a $50 Westfield gift card for her submission. For your chance to win, check out our latest writing challenges in our Competitions section. Also, be sure to follow this guide on how to win the writing challenge

Photo: Disney