Does this cover conversations about a possible developmental concern?

Yes, this is one of the specific scenarios covered, including how to raise a concern gently without overstepping into diagnosis, which sits outside the educator role.

What if a parent becomes upset or defensive during the conversation?

The session includes guidance for staying calm and steady in that moment, and how to bring the conversation back to a collaborative footing rather than a confrontation.

Should difficult conversations always be followed up in writing?

Often yes, and the session covers what to include and what to leave out of a written follow-up, particularly for anything that may later need to be referenced.

Is this suitable for less experienced staff who feel nervous about parent conversations?

Yes, this is one of the most requested workshops among newer staff, as it builds confidence and a clear structure to lean on rather than relying on improvisation.

Does this workshop touch on child protection disclosures from parents?

It touches on when to escalate a conversation to your Designated Liaison Person, but detailed child protection procedure is covered separately in line with your setting's Children First training.

For early years educators

Professional Communication with Parents

Difficult conversations with parents — about behaviour, development or a concern — are part of early years practice, but they rarely feel comfortable. This workshop gives educators clear structures and language for these conversations, helping you communicate honestly and warmly while protecting the relationship on both sides.

Led by Amy Byrne — BA (Hons) Level 8 in Early Childhood Education and Care, currently studying a Level 9 postgraduate in play therapy, Children First trained and a Mandated Person. One hour, with a take-home booklet and a dated certificate of attendance.

See dates & book Request this as a private session

Who this is for

For educators, room leaders and managers who regularly communicate with parents about their child's day, development or behaviour.

What we cover in the hour

Structuring a difficult conversation before it happens.
Language that is honest without being blunt or alarming.
Sharing observations and concerns in a way parents can hear.
Managing your own nerves or defensiveness in the moment.
Following up in writing appropriately after a verbal conversation.
Knowing when a conversation needs to move beyond you to a manager or DLP.

What you'll leave with

A conversation structure for raising a concern with a parent.
A bank of phrases that are honest but not alarming.
Guidance on written follow-up after a difficult conversation.
A self-check for staying calm and professional under pressure.
A clear line for when to escalate a conversation appropriately.

Inside the booklet

The booklet includes the conversation structure, phrase bank and written follow-up templates.

This workshop supports Síolta Standard 3, Parents and Families, which asks settings to build collaborative, respectful relationships with parents as partners in their child's learning.

How it can be delivered

Delivery formats and prices for Professional Communication with Parents
Format	Price
Public ticket — live onlineOne hour, small group, booklet emailed	€20 per person
Public ticket — in personOne hour in a venue near you, booklet in hand	€35 per person
Private 1:1 with Amy30 minutes €25 · full hour €50 (3 for €135)	from €25
Private group — onlineParent evening or staff session, minimum 5	€35 per person
Private group — in personYour setting or venue, minimum 6	€45 per person

No VAT and no booking fees. An itemised receipt is emailed instantly, and invoices are available before you book. Running this across a whole setting? Setting packages start at €399.

Common questions

Does this cover conversations about a possible developmental concern?: Yes, this is one of the specific scenarios covered, including how to raise a concern gently without overstepping into diagnosis, which sits outside the educator role.
What if a parent becomes upset or defensive during the conversation?: The session includes guidance for staying calm and steady in that moment, and how to bring the conversation back to a collaborative footing rather than a confrontation.
Should difficult conversations always be followed up in writing?: Often yes, and the session covers what to include and what to leave out of a written follow-up, particularly for anything that may later need to be referenced.
Is this suitable for less experienced staff who feel nervous about parent conversations?: Yes, this is one of the most requested workshops among newer staff, as it builds confidence and a clear structure to lean on rather than relying on improvisation.
Does this workshop touch on child protection disclosures from parents?: It touches on when to escalate a conversation to your Designated Liaison Person, but detailed child protection procedure is covered separately in line with your setting's Children First training.

Related workshops

More in this theme: Curriculum planning · All workshop themes · Upcoming dates

Available live online across Ireland, and in person in Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, Louth, Cork and other counties.

Trusted early years resources

Every workshop is grounded in Irish early years frameworks and national guidance.

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