One of the most invaluable opportunities for parents and teachers to connect at school is the school meetings. That’s where they can share insights and work together for the benefit of the students.
Unfortunately, many parents don’t know what to expect about these meetings, and they don’t know how to prepare either.
To make the most out of them, you must understand what teachers want parents to know, from engaging in beneficial discussions and communicating openly to finding out how to solve a behavior problem or a difficulty with another student.
Meeting Preparation
When parents arrive prepared, teachers are elated. They can make the most out of the limited time they share with them, and being proactive never hurts anyone, especially parents who care about their children’s education.
Write down any concerns you have about your child, ask the teacher what they need from you, share tips, and ask for feedback if you want to.
Of course, you might not enjoy what some of the teachers have to say but try not to take it personally. They’re professionals who are trying to help your child excel academically.
Aside from writing down tips and questions, take a look over your child’s assignments, report cards, and his teachers’ old comments. Go to the meeting with a good idea of how your child is doing in school.
Key Questions to Ask
Teachers are prepared to guide the conversation when it comes to meetings of this kind. However, having a few questions prepared can help them a great deal. Here are some examples:
- “What are my child’s strengths and areas they need to improve?”
- “How does my child engage with his friends and classmates?”
- “Are there any specific skills or habits we should work on at home?”
- “How can I best support their learning in this subject?”
With these questions, you demonstrate something that teachers love: interest.
Teachers need all the help they can get from parents, and they appreciate those who show a genuine interest in all aspects of their child’s school experience.
Common Misunderstandings
Some people think that these meetings are a performance review of the student, but for teachers, this is more of a collaborative opportunity. They’re not only necessary when the student is going through something.
Even if your child is doing well in school, participating in these meetings will give you a good idea of how things are going with other students and how the school is handling your child’s education. It shows your investment in their growth as people.
Another common misunderstanding is the idea that it’s the teacher’s responsibility to solve every challenge a child faces in school.
Yes, they’re committed to supporting their growth, but there are certain things they can’t control.
Think, for example, of family dynamics and personal insecurities. Work together to address those areas.
Follow-Up Tips
About half of the teachers in the US want people to know that teaching is a difficult job and that they truly care about your child.
Following up after a parent-teacher meeting will show teachers that you’re committed to your child’s educational process. Here’s what you can do:
- Discuss: focus on both strengths and areas for growth so they understand they are valued and supported.
- Implement: Set up small, achievable goals with your child to support this process.
- Reconnect: Most teachers are happy to follow up via email or a quick chat to continue the conversation.
Communication Dos and Don’ts
Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind if you want to have a productive parent-teacher meeting:
Do:
- Teachers may have new or unique insights into your child’s behavior and academic strengths.
- Even when discussing areas for improvement, a positive tone can create a more solution-focused conversation.
- If you don’t understand something, don’t hesitate to ask for more explanation.
Don’t:
- Academic challenges often result from a variety of factors, so avoid placing blame on either the teacher or the student. Focus on solutions.
- While it’s good to advocate for your child, be mindful that teachers have multiple students to manage.
- If a teacher shares something difficult to hear, remember they’re coming from a place of wanting to help.
Cybersecurity in the school
As technology advances and education becomes integrated with it, teachers are responsible for learning new cybersecurity measures, but parents need to understand how important it is as well.
If your child spends time online, make sure they’re using the most secure browser and protecting their information. Moreover, learn about how cybercriminals operate online and help your family stay safe.
Learning beyond the classroom
In May 2024, 87 percent of public schools were providing tutoring to their students during the 2023–24 school year, and 47 percent of public schools reported having provided two or more types of tutoring.
However, one key message teachers wish to convey is that learning doesn’t stop at school.
Tutoring isn’t enough sometimes.
Parents are crucial in reinforcing the skills children get in school, and through them, their children can love learning.
Simple activities like reading stories together, asking questions, and discussing interesting topics are deeply nourishing for them. They have a profound, lasting impact on their life.
To sum up
When approached thoughtfully, parent-teacher meetings can give you a unique opportunity to understand how your child is being educated and what their journey looks like.
You can also foster a closer relationship with the teachers, and help them in their professional goals by encouraging your child to be kind, curious, and attentive.
Prepare effectively, ask thoughtful questions, and practice open and honest communication. Most problems are solved this way. The goal is to work together for the benefit of your child, and that’s why you should strive to understand what the teachers are doing and why.
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