Parent-Teacher Conference Prep

By GreatSchools.net Staff

These tips and questions will help you make the most of your parent-teacher conference.

Before the Conference
1. Make an appointment.
2. Ask your child:

• What do you like best about school?
• Is there anything you're having trouble with at school?

3. Make a list.

• Think of just a few important things to ask or share with the teacher.

During the Conference
1. Listen carefully.

• This is your chance to find out how your child is doing.
• Try to understand the teacher's point of view.

2. Ask questions.
Here are some sample questions:

• How is my child doing in class?
• How is my child doing in reading?
• How is my child doing in math?
• What are his best subjects?
• Are there areas where he needs extra help?

What should I know about homework?

• How much time should my child spend on homework?
• When should homework get turned in?
• What can I do at home to help?

What if my child is behind?

• How can you help my child in areas that are hard for her?
• Are there programs at school that can help?
• What activities can I do at home to help?

What if my child is ahead?

• Is my child getting enough challenging work?
• Does the school have a program for gifted students?
• How can I get my child tested for it?

How is my child doing in general?

• Does my child get along with the other children?
• Does my child participate in class activities?
• How is my child behaving?

How can we stay in touch?

• When is a good time to talk with you if I have questions?
• How can I keep track of how my child is doing?

3. Share.

• Help the teacher get to know your child better.
• If the teacher is having trouble, share ideas that have worked in the past.

After the Conference
1. Talk to your child.
2. Try the home activities the teacher suggested.
3. Follow up with the teacher to make sure your child is getting support.
4. Make sure the teacher knows how to reach you.
5. Ask for updates.