Last week I had my teacher/parent conference for one of my children. I always love conferences because it is a wonderful way to know just where my child stands up to this point. I get to find out what their strengths and weaknesses are and if they are the same in the classroom as what I see going on at home. I get new insight on my child from their teachers and I always welcome fresh eyes on their progress. I go in ready with a list of questions on ways that I can help them further at home. Don’t get me wrong no matter how many times I have done this or forget the fact that I used to be a teacher myself, when I go in for a conference on my own child I am always nervous and anxious. I think that is a normal feeling for any parent. Teacher conferences are a wonderful way to make a strong connection with your child’s school and teacher, always ask your burning questions and press until you are satisfied with an answer. After this conference I was so excited to hear how well my daughter’s teachers know her and I got some wonderful insight on what we need to be working on at home. I also felt that I wanted to know some things about them(since they knew my child so well) to make that connection stronger between our home and school. I had each teacher fill out a form letting us in on a few of their favorite things. Such as their favorite flower, drink, cookie, their birthday, favorite color, favorite restaurant, favorite store, favorite author and their favorite indulgence. This way when we have the chance to treat them it could be a little more personal. Another way to make a strong connection with the school is sign up for things the teacher may need help with, either at the school or things that can be completed at home. Be a Friday reader or sign up to be a lunch volunteer, join the PTA or a committee. Get to know the school nurse and the front desk staff, all of these wonderful people deal with your children at some point. I always think of Dr. Dobson saying about school that our children don’t belong to the school they attend we, the parents, are responsible for our children in all areas. We are our children’s first and foremost teacher and we must be a strong team with the school and their teachers. If you feel like you are out in left field or being left sitting on the bench, get more involved. It will be an extreme benefit to your child. Happy Fall Conferencing!!!
