Yes, you get the notes home and you have some idea as to what they are learning, but as for who they played with or talked to, that information is a closely guarded secret.
If you do want your child to open up that bit more, have a read of the following advice:
1. Bargain with them
Tell your youngster three things that you did that day and encourage them to tell you three things that they did.
2. Ask them a specific question
Instead of asking your child a general question of what did you do today, ask more specific ones. Be a little creative and encourage them to share the funniest, weirdest or even noisiest thing that happened – this is a great way to get them to start talking.
3. Give them a chance
The last thing you want to do when you are finished work is talk about work, so give your child a chance to relax. They are going to be drained and hungry so give them time before you start the third degree.
4. Talk while you are doing something
It is less intimidating to talk about school if you are doing something, so ignite a conversation while you are making lunch or the dinner or even getting their pyjamas on. There is no specific time to talk about school.
5. Don't be judgemental
Don’t ask your child ‘why’ questions - they’ll just sound judgemental. For instance, instead of saying ‘why did you do that?’ ask ‘that was an unusual thing to do – how did you come up with it?’
6. Be available
We all work better at different times and moments when you want to talk might not be moments when they want to talk. Instead, make sure you are available at all times so that when they are ready to talk they know that you are there.
