Parent-teacher conferences or IEP meetings can be overwhelming or stressful. Based upon the type of meeting, many people might be involved with different opinions. Not all conference experiences are good. Parents and teachers might bring that mindset with them. Listed below are my top 5 best tips to help change that mindset.
1. Be Prepared and Organized.
Have everything together. These items might include student work samples, conference forms or IEP documents, an IEP Agenda, etc. The papers should all be in one folder. The things that need to be signed have Post-It Flags to ensure you remember them. Nothing is more nerve-wracking than digging through heaps of papers to find what you are looking for in front of your parents. This is your time to prove to them what type of teacher you are so make sure you put your best foot forward.
You can use an IEP Agenda to ensure that all parts are covered. Making notes about important points to discuss can be helpful. My Parent Teacher Conference Form covers all you might want to address in a parent-teacher conference.
You should review the data before the meeting. Data might include grades, IEP goal progress, notes, etc.
2. Always start and end with positives.
Always start and end with something positive about the student. You could highlight an academic or character trait. It is worthwhile to do if meeting to address some serious concerns. (Also, use factual, nonjudgmental language when stating concerns.) Starting with positives makes the tough topics a little easier to receive. Ending with positives closes out the meeting on a lighter note. For example, you might compliment Jane on how well she assists others that need help in the classroom. Or you might want to mention how Bill excels in multiplication. Notice multiplication is referenced and not math. It is also very important to ensure that praise is very specific. This conveys how well you know your student’s abilities.
3. Always have a plan.
There is nothing wrong with expressing concerns to parents at parent-teacher conferences. Most parents expect it. However, problems will arise when you share issues only. That can convey to parents that you do not like their child as you have only focused on negatives. Parents also want to know that you have a plan for those concerns. It should be specific. The plan should not be that the parent should address this issue with their child at home. Ways that you will support the student should also be included. There should be specific action steps that the teacher, student, and parent will follow. There should also be a plan to follow up if needed.
4. Limit your use of teacher terms.
Use parent-friendly language. As educators, we often use acronyms and teacher talk. However, most parents do not understand it. Some parents may not feel comfortable asking. There is nothing wrong with using an acronym or two now and then. Just ensure you explain what it means to the parent(s). You want them to feel comfortable. You also want them to know what is going on.
5. Frequently check for understanding.
Check for understanding or questions frequently. For many parents, these parent-teacher conferences can be very hard. Check often to ensure that you can address concerns as they arrive. Ask if they have any questions or concerns after each part you review (or every one or two sections for an IEP meeting). It will also help parents feel more at ease when talking to you. By regularly checking in, parents feel like they are a part of the process. You are letting them know that their opinion matters. This is a huge factor in building connections.
When meeting with parents, remember the goal is the same – student success. Therefore, it is imperative to keep the lines of communication open. Parent conferences are a great way to ensure that you do just that. Following these steps can help ensure student success.
I hope you these tips are helpful for you. Feel free to pin these to Pinterest for future reference. I’m always happy to answer any questions you have or to hear any suggestions.
Looking for more information about Parent Teacher Conferences? Check out these articles.
Top Tips for Parent Teacher Conferences
Tips for Successful Parent Teacher Conferences At Your Child’s School
Parent Teacher Conferences: Tips for Teachers
10 Tips for Smooth Sailing Parent Teacher Conferences
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