Parent-teacher conferences benefit both the parent and the teacher, and ultimately the child. The conference gives the parent and teacher the opportunity to communicate about the child's academic and behavioral strengths and weaknesses. Ideally, a parent-teacher conference focuses on the child's strengths and works on establishing a game plan to help the child overcome weaknesses, says the Harvard Family Research Project. Conferences enable parents and teachers to work as a team to enhance a child's educational future.
Step 1
Talk with your child prior to the parent-teacher conference to find out what he enjoys about school and if he is having any difficulties with schoolwork, peer interaction or student teacher relationships. Ask your child things like, "What are your favorite activities at school?" "Is the work too hard or too easy?" "Do you understand your teacher's instructions?" "Does the teacher explain schoolwork in a way you understand?" "Do you get along with the other students in your school?"
Step 2
Write down a list or questions and topics you want to discuss at the parent-teacher conference. Bring the list with you to the conference so that you do not forget any items you want to go over with the teacher. Include your child's likes and concerns on the list and any questions you have. Some examples of questions you might ask the teacher are, "Does my child have a good grasp of classwork, or is she having problems?" "What coursework will you be teaching my child this year?" "My child is having difficulty understanding her math assignments; what can I do to help her?" "What type of disciplinary measures do you use in class?"
Step 3
Walk into the parent-teacher conference with an open mind and a friendly attitude. The New York City Department of Education suggests "establishing a rapport" at the beginning of the conference by taking "notice of something that reflects well on the teacher." For instance, thank the teacher for the nice notes she leaves on your child's schoolwork. Establishing a good rapport at the start of the conference sets the mood for open and honest communication.
Step 4
Listen carefully to what the teacher has to say about your child, taking notes if you want. After the teacher is finished, ask any questions or discuss any concerns that you have with the teacher.
Step 5
Ask to review your child's schoolwork so that you can better understand your child's strengths and weaknesses. Inquire about ways you can assist your child at home with areas that she struggles in.
Step 6
Respond to problems the teacher points out about your child's academic or behavioral skills with questions on how to resolve the situation. Communicating about your child's interests, strengths and behavior at home and at school can help you and the teacher to come up with a game plan to help your child succeed. Focus on your child's strengths to find what works and what does not. For example, you may find that your child is a visual learner and absorbs information best when pictures are included as part of the lesson plan.
Step 7
Reschedule another parent-teacher conference at a later date so you can follow up on the progress your child is making.
