As a teacher, you might well have your own children. If not, you are likely to have close relatives, a brother or sister perhaps, with children. You will know how the vast majority of parents watch their children’s progress in school carefully.

The parents/guardians of the students in your classes are likely to have the same level of concern as you, the teacher, that their children are progressing, but they do not have your knowledge or experience. Many parents are rather shy in talking to their child’s teacher. Teachers have an important responsibility to ensure parents feel confident enough to talk about all aspects of school life. Where teachers have concerns about a child in their class, establishing a dialogue with parents/guardians is one important part of addressing the problem. Look how one teacher dealt with such a concern.