Topical Teaching

Below are some useful pointers for parents attending parent-teacher conferences courtesy of educator and writer, Susan Schaefer.

• Be punctual — Teachers are on a tight schedule so if you are late you might get bumped to stand-by.
• Come with a list of questions — Avoid wasting time by jotting down your most important concerns before the conference. If you have a question that requires a lengthy response, schedule a follow-up time to speak with the teacher.
• Focus on academics — The primary focus of school is academics so ask questions about how your child is doing and how you may help your child improve if necessary.
• Be open-minded — The teacher may have some observations you do not see at home. Our kids bring out our most basic emotions, but try to opt out of defensive mode and listen to what the teacher has to say.
• Ask for clarification — If the teacher says your child is “chatty” or “plays roughly” ask specifically what that means or ask for examples when he or she displayed that behavior.
• Don’t complain about other kids — However, suggesting she not sit your child with another child is fine. If there have been specific incidents you feel the teacher should know about, go ahead and share. The teacher will listen and handle it, she just can’t comment on other kids.
• Treat the teacher with respect — It’s sad that I even need to say that.  Teachers are professionals with the education and experience necessary to competently teach your child. You would not appreciate other people that are not in your profession telling you how to do your job and either do they.
• Do not stay past allotted time — Understand that the teacher is not trying to rush you but there is only so much time and others are probably peering in the door for any sign you are about to wrap it up.

I agree with all of them except for the one about keeping the focus on the academic.  I believe that parents should be able to focus on any matter or topic that concerns or interests them.  I also believe that the social welfare of a child is every bit as important as their academic progress.