It is the season of parent-teacher conferences! Parent-teacher conferences allow parents to get involved in their child’s education and stay up to date on their progress. They help you understand what subjects your child excels in and where they may need assistance. Before you attend the conference, however, you should be prepared with information and questions. The following guide explains what you should know and ask going into a parent-teacher conference.

What You Should Know

Before attending a parent-teacher conference, you’ll want to have at least some knowledge of how your child is doing in class. Be aware of their grades and try to ascertain their strengths and weaknesses. If you have time, check in with your child to review recent homework, tests, and assignments they’ve had trouble with. Speak with your child about how they’ve been feeling about class. Ask your children not only how they are doing academically but also ask after their social and emotional well-being – are they enjoying their school, who are their friends. Know that you might not get all of the answers you’re looking for from your child, and that’s where the conference comes in.

What You Should Ask

Always come prepared with questions. Teachers can tell when parents are an active part of their child’s education, and this might help you better understand your child’s needs. Time is limited, so be sure to bring out your most pressing questions first.

For example, you should ask if your child is meeting their educational expectations and keeping up with the curriculum. Is your child paying attention in class? Do they participate in class – ask questions, raise their hand to answer questions? What can you do at home to help them improve? Does your child need additional help on a particular subject? These conferences are a good time to do a quick SWOT analysis. Identify your child’s strengths, weaknesses. Opportunities for improvement and threats to their progress.

If your child is falling behind, ask for additional resources at school or outside school to help your child. If your child is doing well, ask for resources to provide enrichment and challenge. If you know your child is going to be taking standardized tests at the end of the year, ask for additional resources and materials now so you can help your child prepare throughout the year.

Take notes on given answers, and plan to take immediate action. Whether your child needs more sleep, tutors, or extra time to study, you should do everything you can to put them on the path toward improvement.

As a parent, your child’s education is one of your top priorities. If you come to the conclusion that a tutor would enhance their learning, reach out to Mathnasium of Smyrna. Using the superior Mathnasium Method™, we provide individualized math instruction for students in the Smyrna and Mableton area. We cater to students in grades 2^nd through 12th. With the right help, your student will soon gain the studying skills, problem-solving abilities, and confidence necessary to thrive. Visit us online or call (770) 436-4949 to learn more about their tutoring services.