Studies show that children whose parents are involved in their education do better in school.  Parent-teacher conferences are important meetings for you to attend.  It's important for you to not only hear what the teacher has to say about your child's progress in school, but it's also an opportunity for you to share information that may be affecting your child's performance in school.  Your child's teacher can also give you tips on how to help your child with homework and be more engaged in school.  

Please make parent-teacher conferences a priority.  Here are some tips to help you make the most of your conference:

Talk with your child before the conference about his or her favorite subjects and activities in school.  Let your child know that you will be meeting with his or teacher. Ask if there are any concerns that he or she would like you to discuss with the teacher.

Review assignments 
Are there areas where your child really shines and other that might need a little extra work?  Discuss both strengths and weaknesses with the teacher.

Be on time for the meeting.  Please be sure to let the teacher know as soon as possible if you are unable to attend the scheduled conference.  Be sure to reschedule.  Conferences last about 15-20 minutes.  If you need more time, do not hesitate to ask the teacher for a follow-up session.

Keep an open mind
Don't get upset or angry if your child's teacher discusses trouble areas.  Remember that the conferences are meant to help you understand your child's school performance.  Working together with the teacher will help your child succeed.

Make plan
Find out what you can do to follow through at home.  Decide together what you, your child, and the teacher need to do to help your child succeed.

Tell your child
After the conference, discuss the teacher's comments with your child.  Remember to praise all the things he or she is doing well and pass along the teacher's compliments.  If you need to, talk about areas that you and the teacher will be working on to help your child improve.

Follow up
In the days and weeks that follow, let your child's teacher know that you are following through on what was discussed and that you'd like to hear how things are progressing.

Remember that your child's school and teachers welcome parent engagement all year-round.  Feel free to call and schedule a phone or in-person conference any time you think there is a need.