ABCs of Learning

With the end of the first nine-week grading period come parent-teacher conferences. While the thought of these meetings may initially seem somewhat intimidating, conferences provide an opportunity for sharing ideas and developing plans to support your child’s learning. A few tips will help to make the most of this valuable time.

• Plan ahead by writing down questions and ideas that you would like to discuss. By doing so, you will not forget the topics that you wanted to address.
• Make sure to arrive on time and in the correct location.
• Begin the conversation by sharing positive feedback and appreciation for the way in which the teacher has helped your child.
• Stay on topic to insure that you make the most productive use of the limited meeting time.
• Remain calm and open-minded. While your child’s needs can undoubtedly produce an emotional response, an even temperament will help you to process information and make the best possible decisions. Listen to all ideas that are presented before determining the most effective plan.
• Take notes either during or immediately following the conference. You can then review the information at a later time and provide feedback for your child as needed.
• Establish a means of further communication. This dialogue will help to monitor your child’s progress. It might take place via handwritten notes, emails, telephone conversations, or future conferences.
• Thank the teacher and end the conference on time so that you do not interfere with another parent’s meeting time.