It is time for family-teacher conferences. This means different things to different families. While one family might really be looking forward to meeting with the teacher another family may really be dreading this meeting.

What is the family-teacher conference? It is a time to reflect on the goals, objectives and even dreams of your child. It is a time to forge mutual respect for the parent and teachers role in your child’s education. Educators prepare for your child’s conference by combining a series of observations, rating scales, checklists, observations from other educators and their own expertise.  These data points are compiled into a progress report for your preschooler.

During the conference the educator will want to find out more about your personal culture and family life. There should be a sharing of information about the child that results in teamwork and collaboration for your child’s education.

Progress reports generally review your child’s progress in the following areas: language, math, history, social science, science, health and integrated arts.

NAEYC suggest that families prepare for conferences in the following ways.

Be willing and ready to share information about your child and family. You are the most important influence in your young child’s life. You know your child better than anyone else and have valuable insights to share with the teacher. Share things about your child’s life at home. Focus on the things you believe your child’s teacher needs to know.

Stay focused on your child.  While it is easy to wonder how your child is doing compared to other children, his/her own siblings or even yourself at the same age it is important to focus strictly on observable progress for your child. Stay focused on your child and his or her unique temperament, individual needs, and special interests.    .

Attend every parent-teacher conference. Arrange to be at all scheduled conferences whether in person or by phone, use the conference as a time to exchange information with the teacher and discuss ways to work together to enhance your child’s education.

Arrive on time. Teachers usually have a tight schedule for conferences. If you think you will need additional time ask for it in advance.

Remember, children can hear and remember what is said.  Conferences are generally a time for adults to talk. It’s best to arrange for a caregiver for your child.

Listen with an open mind.  Ask questions when you don’t understand. Speak up if you disagree with a strategy or don’t understand how it will support your child’s development and learning. Explain the reasons for your views and voice your concerns, but be open to suggestions. Stay on the subject: your child’s progress. This is important dialog for your child’s education.

Be prepared. If you have specific question to ask the teacher, it’s a good idea to ask the most important question first, in case time runs out. Remember, while teachers have a specialized education, they don’t have answers for everything nor can they diagnose or speak to issues outside of their specialization.

Keep the conversation focused on what can be done for your child. When there are problems, both teachers and parents need to stay calm and work together for the best interest of the child. Follow up conferences/meetings will be scheduled if necessary.

Stay involved. Try to visit the center or school frequently, not just for conferences and Back to School Night. Ask the teacher to suggest activities you can do at home to reinforce your child’s learning. Look for opportunities to engage yourself in your child’s education. If you have questions find out what format the teacher likes to receive and answer so that lines of communication remain open!

Source: Adapted from H. Seplocha, 2004, “Partnerships for Learning: Conferencing with Families,” Family Ties, Young Children 59 (5): 96–99.

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