Sunday, June 28, 2009

Thoughts to consider at Parent Teacher Interview Time

It’s just as important for parents to tell teachers about issues at home that may affect school performance as it is for teachers to report how children are doing in the classroom.

Students do best when parents and teachers work together as partners. The start of a new school year is a great time to open a dialogue with your child’s teacher. If you haven't already, then sharing this information with a teacher will help her better understand your child’s needs and lay the groundwork for a cooperative relationship throughout the rest of the school year.

  1. Health conditions: If your child is diabetic, uses an inhaler, is allergic to peanuts, or has a serious health condition, or been diagnosed with a condition which may affect behaviour and concentration her teacher should know.

  2. Family issues: Advise the teacher if your family is going through a major change that could affect your child, such as a divorce, a death in the family, or a move. Even if your child seems to have adjusted well, alert teachers so they can watch for behavioral changes.

  3. Personality traits or behaviour issues: It’s best to make teachers aware of any worrying issues e.g., painful shyness or throwing tantrums, before they become a problem at school.

  4. Strengths and weaknesses: If you tell teachers these things up front, they’ll have more time to help your children improve in the areas they need it most.

  5. Learning style: You’ve spent years teaching your kids, from potty training to tying shoelaces, so you have a good idea of their learning styles. If your child learns better through hands-on activities than through listening to explanations, mention that to his teacher.

  6. Study habits: Tell teachers about your childs' study habits and any issues they face in completing the work. Teachers often can offer suggestions to make homework time go more smoothly.

  7. Special interests: Let the teacher know about your child’s hobbies or interests as it can help the teacher forge connections in the classroom.

Adapted from: Sharing key information about your child can help teachers make a connection. by Emily Graham

Keep on reading!
Kids' who read, succeed!!!

No comments:

Post a Comment