Let’s just be honest: parents’ evening as a single parent can be tough. It’s one of those weirdly emotional admin events that sneaks up on you. You’re bracing yourself for feedback about your child’s handwriting, but really it’s about so much more than that.

You might be walking in alone for the first time, fielding polite but awkward glances from other couples. Maybe you’re dreading bumping into your ex. Or maybe your ex didn’t show up. Again. Maybe you’re there alone every time. And yes, it does sting a bit when the teacher says “Let’s wait for Dad/Mum to arrive.” (They're not coming.)

So, here’s a little guide from someone who’s been there, done that, and had to wipe away smudged mascara in the car park after a chat about phonics.

1. Reframe what “showing up” looks like

It’s easy to feel like the solo parent is at a disadvantage at these things. But remember: you turned up. You took time out of work or squeezed it into a chaotic day. You asked the questions, you took the notes, you showed your child you care. That’s massive.

You don’t need to be part of a team of two to be an engaged, brilliant parent. You already are.

2. Prep your questions in advance

It’s surprisingly easy to leave parents’ evening having forgotten the one thing you really wanted to ask. When you’re solo, you can’t lean over to your co-parent and say “What did you think of that?” So make a quick list before you go.

A few good ones:

• Is my child happy and settled?
• How are they getting on socially?
• Is there anything they’re not telling me that I should know?
• What can I do at home to support them?

3. If your ex is coming… make a plan

Whether you co-parent amicably or just about tolerate each other, it helps to have a plan. Will you go in together? Will you take turns? Who’s booking the slot? Be clear in advance, even if it means a slightly awkward text. It’ll save you both (and the teacher) a world of stress.

And if they don’t show up? You’ve got this. You can always forward the feedback later or not—your call.

4. Don’t let smug couples get to you

There will always be one couple in matching gilets who high-five after hearing about their child's “exceptional focus during maths.” Good for them.

But also? Good for you. You’re parenting solo, and you still made it to parents’ evening with your dignity, your diary, and probably a snack in your handbag. That deserves a round of applause.

5. Create your own debrief ritual

Without a partner to chat to afterwards, the emotional fallout can sit with you. Whether the feedback was glowing or hard to hear, give yourself space to process. Call a Frolo friend. Write a quick journal entry. Go through their books and feel proud. Pour a glass of wine or make a strong tea and breathe it out.

This is your moment to acknowledge that you’re doing it—and doing it well.

And if you’re finding it all a bit much, remember you don’t have to do this alone. The Frolo community is full of single parents who get it. Post in the app and you’ll likely hear from someone who was at parents’ evening last night too—solo, stressed, and wondering if everyone else got the same handwriting worksheet to take home. Whether you need practical advice, a place to vent, or just a reminder that you’re not the only one navigating this stuff, Frolo’s got your back.

Final thoughts…

If parents’ evening has ever left you sitting in your car blinking back tears or rage-texting your group chat, please know you’re not alone. The Frolo community is full of solo parents who get it—who’ve walked into those classrooms solo and walked out holding both pride and pain in the same breath.

You’re doing an amazing job. Don’t let a plastic chair and a 10-minute slot tell you otherwise.

‍