Parent-teacher conferences provide a direct form of communication between the parents and teachers. The conferences offer the chance to build a partnership between the school and the students' families. Conferences are the only formal time in which teachers communicate with some of the parents. The structure of and preparation for the conferences can increase the effectiveness of the meeting.
Early Communication
Establish communication with the parents before the conferences. A brief questionnaire works well to initiate communication and help you prepare for the conference. The questions should relate to the conferences and what the parents expect or would like to discuss at the meeting. Leave a spot for parents to address any specific questions or concerns they have about their kids, the classroom, curriculum or general policies. This allows you to prepare answers or provide examples to explain the answers. The questionnaire helps customize the conferences to each family and avoids surprises if the parents have specific concerns.
Student Participation
Getting the students involved in the conferences gives them some ownership in the meeting. The extent of their involvement is up to your personal preference. Let the students help select some examples of their work to share with the parents at the conferences. Ask them to write a paragraph about how they think they are doing in school. The kids can also help prepare the room. Spend time cleaning the room with the kids to make sure it is in good shape. Plan a craft or art project to decorate the room for the parents. A seasonal craft or a large welcome banner painted by the students works well.
Conference Communication
Your approach to the conference makes an impact on the tone of the meeting. Setting a positive tone at the conference makes the parents feel comfortable and helps establish a partnership. Start the conference by citing a positive accomplishment by the child. Move into areas that need improvement. End the conference on a positive note to allow the parents to leave with a good feeling. The words used in the conference influence how the parents feel about the experience. Avoid criticizing the child or the parents and emphasize joining forces to help the child succeed.
Goals
Goals help focus the efforts of both the parents and you as the teacher. Even the top students need goals to challenge them in the classroom. Work with each student to develop goals before the conferences. Ask for input from the parents particularly if they notice areas in which their child needs improvement. Update the progress toward the goals at each parent-teacher conference.
Parent Information Packet
A take-home packet gives each family a record of the conference. A simple manila folder works well to hold the materials. Include a copy of the report card, assessment form or other documents used to show the student's progress. This allows the parents to look back in case they forget something from the conference. Add some examples of the child's work. If appropriate, include a page that offers general suggestions for at-home educational activities. This allows the parents to get further involved in the educational process.
