Download the Conference Prep List for Families here!
It’s that time of year again – Parent-Teacher Conference Season! These conferences provide the perfect opportunity for parents and teachers to maintain an ongoing dialogue.
Conferences give the opportunity to discuss your child’s academic performance and well-being at school. This allows you to stay informed, express concerns, and collaborate with teachers in nurturing your child’s growth, all while forging a strong connection between home and school.
Here are some tips for before, during, and after your conference to make the most of your time with your child’s teacher(s)!
Before Your Conference
- Be in the know: Determine the conference dates.
- Be proactive: If conferences are not scheduled by the school or teacher, contact your child’s teacher and request a conference.
- Review your child’s work: Go through your child’s recent assignments, tests, and homework to understand their academic progress and any areas where they may be struggling.
- Communicate with your child: Talk to your child about the upcoming conference and ask for their input on any concerns or questions. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings about school.
- Formulate questions: Think about what is most important to you and what you could use help with from another adult who knows your child in a different context than you do. We came up with some questions to help get you started!
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- How is my child doing academically?
- What are my child’s strengths in the classroom, and where do they need improvement?
- Are there any specific challenges my child faces in their studies or behavior?
- How can I support my child’s learning at home? Are there any specific resources or strategies you recommend?
- How does my child interact with their peers and behave in the classroom?
- Are there any upcoming important assignments, projects, or assessments my child should prepare for?
- How can I stay informed about my child’s progress between parent-teacher conferences?
- Are there any extracurricular activities or school programs you suggest for my child’s development?
- Are there any concerns or goals you and I should work on together to support my child’s education?
- What can I do to help my child maintain a positive attitude toward school and learning?
During Your Conference
- Arrive on time: Make sure you arrive or sign in on time for the conference, as these meetings are often scheduled in short time slots, and punctuality is important.
- Be open and receptive: Approach the conference with an open and receptive attitude. Be willing to listen to the teacher’s perspective and collaborate on solutions.
- Take notes: Bring a notebook or electronic device to take notes during the conference. This will help you remember the teacher’s feedback and any action steps discussed.
After Your Conference
- Follow up: After the conference, follow up on any action items or recommendations made by the teacher. Stay involved and engaged in your child’s education throughout the school year.
Remember, that parents and teachers are a team in the educational journey, creating a friendly and cooperative learning atmosphere. If you have any questions or concerns in the weeks following your conference with a teacher, do not hesitate to communicate with them.
