Conference Tips

A parent teacher conference is a great opportunity to learn more about your child, their academic progress, and how they are growing in the first grade. We will have a minimum of two parent teacher conferences during the year. Of course, if at any time you have a concern please let me know and we will set up a conference as soon as possible. Below is a list of things to consider to prepare yourself for the conference. Time is limited, so we would like to use the time we have as effectively as possible. Take a look at the ideas below and then spend some time thinking about our time together.

1. Talk with your child- The night before our conference, spend a few minutes with your child to discuss the upcoming meeting. Ask your child what they think I might say about their work at school. Their answers may give us both some insight on how they perceive the school year is progressing for them.
2. Bring a list of questions- Bring a list of questions with you when you come and some paper to jot notes down on. Many times, the 30 minutes that we have goes by so quickly, parents may forget questions they really needed answered. Also, I may be able to provide you with additional strageies of information sources to try or refer to. Paper would be helpful to write these down. Some possible questions you may want to include are: *What are my child's strengths/weaknesses? *What can I do at home to foster his strengths or strengthen his weaknesses? *Is my child working up to their potential? If not, how can we change that? *How are my child's social interactions in the classroom?
3. Share information about your child- This step is vitally important, especially at the first conference of the year. If your child has specific needs or concerns that I should know about, I am counting on you to let me know as soon as you feel comfortable doing so. No one knows your child better than you!
4. Raise issues of concern- Conferences are the perfect time to raise issues of concern for your child. Please be prepared to discuss these and plan on how you want to share this information. Please remember to be tactful and respectful, but not so much that your concerns are not clear. Keep an open mind as we discuss the concerns and work together to find a solution or make a plan.
5. Make the most of our time together- Due to the short time we have alloted to spend discussing your child, please be sure to arrive on time. If possible, make other arrangements for younger siblings as they can be a distraction during the conference. I understand this can be difficult and I will work with you as much as possible to make this happen.
6. Share with your child- At the conclusion of the conference, share with your child as much as feel comfortable. Always remember to emphasize the positive things that were discussed and praise...praise...praise!

I look forward to meeting with you!

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