“Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding, intimacy, and mutual valuing.” Rollo May—Teacher, Author and Psychologist

This week I thought I would review some information about “Hints to having a successful Parent/Teacher Conference.” I hope you find the information helpful. In order to help your kids have a successful school year, you need to know what is expected of them, academically, from now until June. You can find out by asking some questions. Take this list with you to your next parent-teacher conference, and be sure to take notes.1. What skills and knowledge will my child be expected to master this year?2. How will my child be evaluated?3. What can I do to stay more involved in my child's academic progress?4. How do you accommodate differences in learning?5. How are students prepared for learning? Other good ideas prior to a conference with your child's teacher:

-Prepare ahead of time for the conference.
-Look over recent assignments and test grades so that you know how your child has been performing in class.
-Look through books and see what your child is learning.
-Ask your child questions, such as what is their favorite subject? What are they having a difficult time with? What subject do they find easiest (hardest)? And ask them to tell you who their friends are at school.
-Write down questions you have for the teacher so you will remember what you wanted to ask.
-List your child's strengths.
-Be on time for the conference, most are tightly scheduled. Being even 5 minutes late will substantially cut down on the time you have with the teacher.
-Be open to suggestions from the teacher.
-Ask what you can do at home to help your child be more prepared for school.
-Offer suggestions and insights into your child. You know your child best and you may be able to offer information that will help the teacher help them to succeed.
-Ask about social interactions as well as academic. Children struggling with friendships can suffer from low self-esteem, which can cause additional problems in school.
-If you find your child is struggling in school, ask to re-conference in a couple of weeks. This way the teacher will be able to spend more than 20 minutes with you and you can both work together to develop a plan to help your child succeed.

No matter how many suggestions, conferences can be stressful for you, the teacher, and your child. Before attending the conference, be sure to let your children know how much you love them and that you will love them no matter what is shared. Let them know that conferences are not for the teachers to "tattle" on children, but for parents and teachers to work together to best help them succeed.

Thanks for reading.