ASK THE TUTOR
Question: "Dear Tutor, Our parent-teacher conference is coming up next month. Our appointment is only 20 minutes long. What should I expect to hear from the teacher? Is there anything I should do to prepare for this meeting? "
Answer: "Dear Parent, At the start of the school year, the parent-teacher conference is an opportunity for both you and the teacher to exchange information. You may hear the teacher discuss her initial impressions about how your child is adjusting to the new grade level. He or she will likely talk about your child’s learning style by highlighting observed strengths and weaknesses in various subject areas. She will also comment on your child’s social development – how your son/daughter is relating to peers.
In order to make the most of the time set aside for your conference, it is important that you write down any questions ahead of time. Try to find out about the teacher’s homework policy and how much assistance you should provide at home, if any. Be sure to ask about ways to help out – does your child’s teacher welcome parent volunteers in the classroom? Does she invite a “Mystery Reader” (usually a parent) every week? Does she ever need an hour or two of clerical assistance?
The parent teacher conference is an excellent way to start building a partnership with your child’s teacher that will last all year. For more information about tips for how to prepare for parent-teacher conferences visit Discovery School. Thanks for writing!
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