Parent's Evening

Each year parents in the UK are invited to attend an Open Evening where they can meet with teachers to discuss their children’s education, future and general behaviour.  So you would think that in the best interests of the child, parents would come out to support and encourage them? 

On a whole, our children spend on average just under seven hours each day being taught by different people who make an impression and influence them over time.  Are you not curious to meet and speak to the teachers entrusted to educate them?

Over the years that I have attended parent’s evenings at the differing stages of my children’s school education; I find myself questioning “where are the fathers?”  “Am I the only one out there?”  Could this be the only evening of the year that dads let mothers attend, opting out due to work or staying at home to be with the children instead? 

If you cannot attend because of work commitments, take time off or arrange a babysitter to look after the kids for an hour or two. There is nothing more precious than your children.  There are groups like ‘Father’s for Justice’ demonstrating to gain denied fathers’ access to their children.   

As a father, I believe it is important that I attend these events; it shows that I am interested in the education and well-being of my children.  However, year after year I’ve felt that fathers for whatever reason underrepresented themselves by not showing up.  Boys and girls feel so proud when they feel supported, especially at school.

• Let’s look at some of the benefits:
• Support – to your child and teachers
• Keeps you in touch with your child’s education
• Better discipline – from home through into the classroom.

So come on dads invest your time and effort in this once a year event.  I hope to see more of you there in support for your child, taking a keen interest in their education and most of all their future.

By A Concerned Parent