How do we agree targets with school so progress is actually tracked? 

Parenting Perspective 

When the same issues appear in every school report, such as talking too much, incomplete work, or a lack of focus, it is natural to feel that meetings with the school achieve very little. Vague phrases like, ‘We will keep an eye on it’ or ‘We will encourage improvement’ can leave you wondering what is really changing. To turn good intentions into real impact, you need to help the school and your child to move from conversation to a system of measurable, shared accountability. 

Begin with Collaboration, Not Confrontation 

Approach your child’s teachers as partners, not as adversaries. A calm, solutions focused tone will open doors much faster than frustration. 

‘We all want my child to make progress. Could we set some clear and specific goals together so that we can support them, both at home and in the classroom?’ 

This approach shifts the meeting from one of blame to one of teamwork. Teachers are more likely to commit to a concrete plan when they sense your genuine cooperation. 

Make the Goals Clear and Measurable 

Vague targets like ‘improve behaviour’ or ‘focus more’ rarely work. Ask for goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound. For example: 

• ‘To stay in the classroom for the full lesson without any warnings for two consecutive weeks.’ 

• ‘To submit all homework for three subjects on time for one month.’ 

• ‘To raise their hand before speaking three times in every lesson.’ 

Clarity can transform motivation into a clear direction. You, your child, and their teachers can then track progress using observable facts, rather than just opinions. 

Involve Your Child in Setting Their Own Targets 

Children cooperate best when they can help to define what success looks like. Invite them into the process. 

‘What goal do you think you can reach this week? How will you remind yourself to stay on track during class?’ 

A sense of ownership helps to foster responsibility. When your child participates in setting their own targets, they become more invested in meeting the expectations. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, progress and accountability are deeply valued, not as a source of pressure, but as a part of ihsan, or excellence, and amanah, or trust. Setting goals and tracking one’s effort teaches discipline, humility, and sincerity in striving for self betterment. 

Measured Effort in the Noble Quran 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Najam (53), Verses 39-40: 

‘And they shall be nothing (to account) for mankind except what he has undertaken; And indeed, whatever he has undertaken, you shall very soon observe it.’ 

This verse beautifully affirms that our effort matters, and that it is seen. Teaching your child to track their goals helps to turn faith into action, showing them that their growth is measured not only by results, but also by their perseverance. Every small, sincere attempt is recorded by Allah Almighty as progress of the heart. 

Accountability and Discipline in the Teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, Hadith 66, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The intelligent person is the one who calls himself to account and works for what comes after death, and the foolish person is the one who follows his desires and merely hopes in Allah.’ 

This Hadith links true intelligence with self accountability. By teaching your child to set and review their own targets, rather than just hoping that things will improve, you are nurturing a sense of responsibility that is in line with prophetic wisdom. This turns their education into a reflection of their faith, where progress is both a moral and an academic goal. 

Agreeing on trackable goals with your child’s school is not about control; it is about a partnership that is rooted in clarity and care. When home, school, and the child all share specific aims and measurable reviews, consistency replaces confusion. Spiritually, this steady rhythm of effort reflects the believer’s path, one of intention, discipline, and trust in the reward of Allah Almighty for every sincere step forward.