Parent-teacher conferences give you valuable time to learn about how your child is performing in the classroom. Your child's teacher likely spends a great deal of time preparing for conferences so she'll be able to inform you of all of your child's successes --- as well as what he needs to work on. In their book "What Every Parent Needs to Know about the 1st, 2nd & 3rd Grades," Toni Bickart, Diane Trister Dodge and Judy Jablon recommend preparing a checklist ahead of time to help you get the most out of your parent-teacher conference.
Participation
It is important that your child participates in the classroom, Bickart, Dodge and Jablon counsel. Ask your child's teacher if he raises his hand to answer or ask questions, because staying involved in class activities and discussions is an important aspect of learning. Discuss with the teacher how your child participates in group work as well as how well he works on his own. Plan to talk about whether your child participates in all subjects, or if there are subjects he may be struggling with. Make a plan with the teacher to help your child feel more comfortable participating even when he might not understand the information being presented.
Academics
A large portion of the parent-teacher conference will focus on how your child performs academically. Ask about each individual subject, recommend Bickart, Dodge and Jablon. Plan on asking about grades as well as strengths and weaknesses in each area. Discuss what areas need improvement so you can make a plan of action with your child and her teacher. It is helpful to ask specific questions so you know exactly how your child is performing. Think about questions such as, "What words does my child struggle to read?" or "What letters does my child need to practice writing?" Specific questions will help you decide what to work on with your child so she can make improvements.
Socialization
A common worry among parents is that their child does not have friends at school. Teachers are often willing to discuss your child's social skills and help you determine what you can do to help, Haim Ginott writes in "Between Parent and Child." Your child's teacher can identify how your child interacts with others to determine what types of behaviors are deterring him from making friends. Discuss what type of influence other children have on your child, Ginott recommends, so you can work with your child to choose appropriate friends.
References
- "What Every Parent Needs to Know about the 1st, 2nd & 3rd Grades"; Toni S. Bickart, Diane Trister Dodge and Judy R. Jablon; 2004
- "Between Parent and Child: The Bestselling Classic That Revolutionized Parent-Child Communication"; Haim G. Ginott; 2009
