A–Z Glossary

Parental expectations

Parental expectations are caregivers’ beliefs and communicated standards about how children will learn, behave, develop, and handle responsibilities.

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Parental involvement and setting expectations children

Parental involvement and setting expectations children

Why parental expectations matter Children use caregivers’ expectations as information about both the task and themselves. A message such as “I know you can learn this, and we will find the right support” communicates confidence without demanding immediate perfection. By contrast, vague criticism, comparison with siblings, or repeated emphasis on grades can make performance feel […]