by Marcia Hansen, SPS Professional Learning Specialist
Parent-teacher conferences are an important step in building the bridge between home and school to ensure the highest quality of education for children. The purpose of parent-teacher conferences is to discuss the academic, behavioral, and social well-being of the child. A successful conference between parents and teachers produces a team approach that truly supports students. As you plan your conferences, feel free to include any of the teacher tips below.
Parent-Teacher Conference Tips
- Include the student, after all, how can you work as a team if the key player is not there? Also, make sure that all are sitting at a table in the same size chairs. It will keep everyone on the same level, both physically and psychologically. Be sure to know the parents' correct names, both first and last. In many cases, last names are different from the student's. -Paula VanDerVeer, Fultonville, NY
- Time is a huge factor, be very organized and systematic to make the most of the allotted time. Make a folder for each student, place notes on what you specifically want to discuss with the parents along with any student work or documentation needed. -Amber Fireshaker, Springfield, MO
- Be positive and focused on plans to address the problems you and the parents and/or student agree upon. Suggestions for help should be specific, also include plans about how you and the parent will continue to communicate. -Judy Bonfilio
- Start with something positive; continue with the things that the child needs to work on, and then finish with something positive. -Marcelle Tapia, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
- Write notes on the child before the conference and put them into two categories; Glows and Grows. This helps to stay focused on the child and their strengths and needs both academically and behaviorally. -Melissa Alfonso, Lancaster, PA
- Be careful not talk down to parents. Be honest and truthful; offer positive ways to help a struggling child. LISTEN to what the parents have to say. Thank them for taking time to come and meet with you on the day of the conference. -Connie Caldwell, Fort Wayne, IN
- Be very professional; dress professionally and garner more respect. Also, avoid talking about other teachers who are not present. If a parent brings up a problem that involves another teacher, direct them to call and/or meet with that teacher.
- If at all possible try to get a guidance counselor or administrator involved in the parent-teacher conference. This is especially true if you fear that the parent might become agitated or irate. Having another individual there can have a calming influence on the situation.
- Be attentive and use your best listening skills throughout the conference. Allow parents to talk without interruption. Make eye contact and keep your body language open. Try not to be defensive; if a parent is bothered, validate this feeling by saying something like, "I understand that you are bothered by this situation. What can we do to help your child be more successful?" This ensures that the conference stays focused on the child. Sometimes people just want to feel like they've been heard.
- Avoid “eduspeak”, acronyms and terms that might confuse non-educators. If you are discussing specific situations such as standardized tests, make sure that you explain all terms to the parents.
- Build hospitality, have a table and two chairs set outside of your room. This becomes a waiting area. Placing a bowl of candy, a class book, or pictures of classroom activities can make parents more comfortable as they wait for their conference time.
