The parent – teacher conference gives you an opportunity to meet your child’s teacher, discuss your child’s progress and bring up any concerns or issues you may have. More importantly, you can talk about ways to work together to make this year as rewarding as it can be for your child.
Here are helpful tips for a successful conference:
Before the Conference
Talk with your child about school—likes, dislikes, feelings
Write down your concerns: academic progress, problems at home, behavior, peer relations, attitude, and questions about classroom procedures or homework policy.
During the Conference
Discuss the concerns you have written down
Listen carefully to everything the teacher says and take notes for future reference.
If you don’t understand something, ask to have it explained.
Ask for suggestions you can do at home to help your child.
Assure the teacher of your continued support.
After the Conference
Talk with your child about the conference. Share any positive comments the teacher made. Let your child know you are proud!
Follow up with any suggestions you and the teacher agreed upon.
Be sure to call the teacher any time you have a question or concern.