Parent Tips for Teacher Conferences
Parent-teacher conferences take place, at a minimum, two times a year. They provide a specific time for parents and teachers to meet and share about a child’s learning and development.
What to expect
* Most conferences are 15-20 minutes long
* Usually meet in the child’s classroom
* Parents and teacher(s) are present but there may be others…don’t be afraid to ask who they are
Getting Ready…
* Make sure the time works for you; re-schedule if you need to
* Be on time
* Make a list of questions you have about your child & the program
* Bring a pen and paper just in case
During the Conference
* The teacher(s) will share information about your child’s growth and development
* Ask for clarification if you don’t understand or if you need more information
* Take notes if you need to so you can review the information again later
* Ask questions, for example…
· How well does my child get along with others?
· Does my child participate in activities?
· What is my child’s favorite/least favorite thing to do?
· Is my child learning like a typical 3/4/5 year old would?
· Do you have any concerns about my child & his/her learning?
· What can I do to help my child improve?
* Offer your input into your child’s learning
* Make a plan with the teacher, if necessary
* If you need more time to talk, schedule a follow up conference
After the Conference
* Review any papers you received and any notes you may have taken
* Talk to your child about preschool; share successes with him/her
* Store the papers, notes, and/or records in your Parent Handbook in case you need them later
* Stay in contact with the teacher
Above all, remember that YOU are your child’s first teacher!
Your participation during conferences will help you understand your child’s classroom routine as well as his/her learning style. This knowledge will help you to reinforce learning from school at home.
For additional information…visit http://www.nea.org