Parent-teacher conferences are a valuable opportunity for building strong relationships with your students’ families. If you’re a new teacher, it’s normal to feel a little nervous, but remember—parents want the same thing you do: the best for their child.
These meetings allow you to share insights, celebrate progress, and address any concerns in a supportive environment. With a bit of preparation and a positive mindset, you’ll find that these conversations can be productive and rewarding for everyone involved! Stay calm and confident—you’ve got this!
10 tips for successful parent teacher conferences:
- Prepare-Gather academic assessments, work samples and notes about behavior. If appropriate, have students choose work samples and set goals. Here’s a goal setting freebie you can use to empower your students!
- Start with the positive-Highlight each student’s strengths and accomplishments. Be sure to include areas that each student has made growth in up to this point in the year.
- Be specific-When discussing areas of concern instead of saying, “She struggles with focusing,” say “I’ve noticed she struggles to stay on task during math.” Also provide specific strategies that have been successful.
- Listen actively-Provide time for parents to share their insights or concerns. Listen first and if you share concerns, make a plan to support the student.
- Focus on solutions-Discuss strategies for success for home and at school. Especially if a student is struggling, provide ideas for support!
- Keep the student in the forefront-Remeber the reason for the conference. Stay focused on the student-avoid other topics that aren’t related.
- Be Mindful of Time-Be aware of the conference time to honor everyone’s time
- Make a plan-if you discuss action steps such as a behavior plan or at home practice-make a plan to follow up.
- Encourage parent involvement-suggest simple steps at home such as reading 10 minutes each night or practice math facts
- End on a positive note-Celebrate accomplishments and growth.
A Final Note
Remember to reach out to families on a consistent basis with positive comments, classroom activities and a weekly or monthly newsletter. This is helpful because when there is a challenge to be addressed, you have a relationship to build on.
Supporting you always!
💗
