by PATRICK MCNAMARA
Parent-teacher conferences are generally very short, and it can be challenging to get a complete picture of how your child is progressing. It’s best to be prepared before you go. This way you can make the most of your one on one time with your child’s teacher.
Start with this list of questions to ask at your conference. Don’t be afraid to take a written, or typed, list with you so you don’t forget what you want to ask.
- What do you think are the most important skills to have in order to succeed in this class?
- Are some types of assignments weighted more heavily than others?
- What strengths and weaknesses do you see in my child?
- Is my child raising their hand and participating in class?
- Is my child asking for help when they need it?
A few key questions if you’re concerned about low grades:
- Do you think this reflects a lack of effort on my child’s part, or a lack of understanding of the material?
- What can I do as a parent to provide more support?
To get a clear picture of your child’s social interactions you can ask:
- How is my child interacting with their peers?
- Do you see any problems I should be aware of?
Be sure to inform your child’s teacher about anything going on at home. This may help the teacher guide them and understand any issues, or successes, in class. You and your child’s teacher are a team and will guide your child’s success this year. Keep the lines of communication open throughout the year.
