A parent-teacher conference is an excellent opportunity to find out how your child is adjusting to the new school year and to get to know her teachers. Is it your first time to attend one?
Here are some great tips to make the most out of parent teacher conferences.
1. Talk to Your Child
Ask your child if there is anything that he would like you to discuss with the teacher. Talking to your child beforehand will give you the idea what to expect and help you gauge your child’s feelings toward his class.
2. Be Prepared
Jot down everything that you want to talk about at the conference. Being prepared will save you time and regret that you weren’t able to ask all questions you want to ask the teacher. You will always tend to forget things so write them all down or get your phone and take down notes.
3. Be On Time
Arrive promptly or a few minutes early. Being on time is courtesy and a sign of respect.
4. Start Off on the Right Foot
Begin with positive comments about the teacher or classroom. It is a rule of thumb to always say positive before the negative. Try praising the teacher’s way of teaching. For teachers on the other hand, make positive comments about the kid’s good performance.
5. Stay on Track
Avoid lengthy discussions of topics that are not related to the purpose of the conference. Sometimes, small talks can go overboard. Just try to limit small talks not related to your kid’s education. At the end of the day, the goal is to know something about the parents and children.
6. Listen to What the Teacher Has to Say
Be open-minded to suggestions from the teacher. Do not dismiss every argument and oppose the teacher. Listen carefully and understand what the teacher says. The teacher may not be the parent but they’re with your kid five days of the week.
7. Stay Calm
Keep your emotions under control. Before you blurt out anything, just remember to be diplomatic at all times. Don’t let your emotions cloud your reason.
8. Tell Your Child What You Discussed
Take notes about what has been discussed to share with your child. Openly communicate with your child about the things that were discussed with the teacher and ask his opinion about it. This way, the child will also know where he’s standing in the class and you two can discuss how your child can improve their performance.
9. Show Gratitude
Express appreciation for the conference. Say ‘Thank You’ and express that you’re looking forward to meeting the teacher again. It also helps to express your availability as parent whenever problems arise.
10. Stay Within Your Conference Time
Do not stay beyond your allotted time. Other parents are also waiting for their turn have their own schedule for the day. You’re not booked for the entire day so give way and be sensitive to time.
Find this article helpful? Share it to parents you know.
Twitter
Add a Comment
Please do not post:
Thank you once again for doing your part to keep Edarabia the most trusted education source.