At Celebree School, we understand that early education is a partnership between family and teacher, and Family-Teacher Conferences (referred to in this article as Parent-Teacher Conferences) offer an uninterrupted opportunity for family and teacher to come together to create a lasting and impactful plan to help the child grow.
The childcare professionals at Celebree School are happy to provide tips and objectives to keep in mind for the upcoming parent-teacher conferences.
When parents and teachers communicate effectively, it provides an opportunity for children to reach their maximum potential both inside and outside of the classroom. Parent-teacher conferences may be the first time that you and your child’s teacher can discuss your child’s development. Parents and teachers alike should use the meeting as an opportunity to establish a healthy relationship for developing a shared goal that focuses on helping your child have the most rewarding school experience possible.
A parent-teacher conference typically lasts 15-20 minutes, and although seemingly brief, can map out the remainder of the school year. During the meeting, teachers will often introduce parents to their teaching style and classroom policies. Parents will also have the opportunity to ask any questions that may arise. The purpose of a parent-teacher conference is to help you to understand your child’s day-to-day schedule within the classroom, so that you may continue to expand upon your child’s development outside of it in a cohesive manner. It is beneficial in these meetings to make the teacher aware of your child’s after-school activities, favorite interests and family relationships, so that they gain a complete understanding of your child’s personality, strengths and areas of possible improvement.
The final part of a parent-teacher conference typically addresses any plans to help your child work through academic or classroom difficulties as a means to ensure their continued success. The teacher may suggest specific at-home exercises if there is a need for improvement in a certain area. Alternatively, they may recommend extra projects or artistic activities to prevent disengagement for advanced learners. It’s important to realize that academic success is more than a grade. Academic achievement has to do with the comprehensive understanding of skills and concepts being taught in an educational environment—much more than a single score.
Following up after a parent-teacher conference is just as important as attending one. Encourage your child’s teacher to provide you with an alternative means of communication such as a telephone number or email address. The purpose of the initial parent-teacher conference is merely to begin the conversation—the start of a continued discussion. But, the communication should not stop there. Parent-teacher communication is most effective when it promotes a lasting relationship that helps to measure your child’s growth and development. For example, parents and teachers will often establish a spring goal during a fall conference. Once spring arrives, parents and teachers meet again to reflect a child’s development over the course of those months.
Through consistent and effective communication with your child’s teacher, you can maximize your child’s potential and best prepare them for the classroom and for life. For more information regarding Celebree’s parent-teacher conferences in December, contact Celebree School today.