Parents Can Make the Most of Session With Child’s Teacher by Going In Prepared

Children learn best when parents and teachers work as a team to drive their learning. A parent-teacher conference can be one of the most effective ways to keep a child on the right academic path.

Here are educators’ tips for making the most of a conference:

* Establish a rapport with your child’s teachers early in the school year and work to maintain it.

* If you want an appointment with a teacher, call or send a note requesting a meeting and saying why you seek it.

* If work or other obligations make it impossible to meet during established conference periods, set a time and place convenient for all. Many teachers are willing to visit a family’s home or meet during early mornings or evenings. As a last resort, consult by phone.

* If a primary-grade teacher tries to seat you in a pint-size chair, ask instead for a normal-size chair.

* If you need things clarified in another language, request an interpreter.

* Jot notes in advance about questions you have or information that would be valuable for the teacher to know. Talk to your child to get a sense of what he or she likes or dislikes about school, the teacher and the class environment.

* Ask questions about lessons and what the teacher expects. “What does A work look like?” “What can we do at home to help our child’s progress?” “How much homework will you be assigning?”

* Take notes during the conference so that you can remember what was said.

* Assure the teacher of your continued support. Thank the teacher for taking the time to discuss your child.

* After the conference, share details with your child, stressing positive points, praising achievement and discussing the action plan on which you and the teacher agreed.

* Follow through with the action plan and stay in touch with the teacher.

Here are questions to ask the teacher regarding your child:

* What subject does my child like most? Least?

* How does my child compare to the norm at her or his grade level?

* How is my child doing socially? Does he or she get along with others?

* What does my child enjoy doing? What does my child dislike doing?

* Does my child participate in class discussions and activities?

* Have you noticed any special behavior problems?