How To Make Parent Teacher Meetings More Productive?

It takes a village to raise a child. In an urban and nuclear family setting, this village, primarily,

Avi Danoa

7 years ago

Zedua parent teacher conference

How To Make Parent Teacher Meetings More Productive?

Zedua parent teacher conference

It takes a village to raise a child. In an urban and nuclear family setting, this village, primarily, consists of parents and teachers. In such a situation, the parent-teacher relationship is of utmost importance. They need to find a common ground and tread towards working together to help kids.

While communicating with your child’s teacher, it is important to avoid breakdown of communication. Keep the conversation healthy and productive, even if you don’t like what you hear.

Talk about your child’s strengths

Have you made a long list of things that your child is doing wrong? Chances are your child’s teacher also have some things to say. To keep the conversation positive, you should also talk about your child’s strengths and then find a way to build on it.

For example,

Negative: He does not sit in one place

Positive: Can prove to be a good leader

Action: Make him in-charge of a group during the activity so that he can help the group(s) or he can moderate the discussion.

It is important to build on what your child is good at as he will also feel appreciated and included.

Rules at home

Discipline is very important for a child. It sets boundaries and prepares them up for a brighter future. Rules for each household is different and are largely dependent upon a parent’s parenting style. Discuss your house rules with the teacher so that she can have a better picture of the child’s daily routine. Sometimes, unintentionally, practices followed by the parents can do more harm than good. In such a case, your child’s teacher can help you find corrective measures.

Also read: How to manage your teenagers

Changes you are ready to make

Everybody has their limitations as parents. It is important to inform your child’s teacher what you can or cannot do. This way parents and teacher working together becomes more productive. Speak politely and use kind words to communicate your disapproval to the change and ask for an alternative.

Extra work that needs to be put in

Parent-teacher meetings can be a little overwhelming, especially when your child needs extra attention. Be mentally prepared to work a little extra. Take small steps but with surety and determination. Have faith that the teacher is also making efforts for the student’s benefit.

Don’t disrespect the teacher

Your child will listen to a teacher that he respects. If he does not value her opinion or believes in her authority, he will defy her or not take her seriously. When the plan for parents and teacher is to work as allies, a slip of a negative comment in front of the child can damage the reputation of the teacher.

Lend a hand

Lend a hand for exhibitions, art shows, school programs, etc whenever you have time. It will be a good way to bond with the teacher and your child.

Prepare for the PTM

Parent-teacher meetings are not only for students who need extra help. Even if your child is doing well academically, find out how he can improve in other areas. You can prepare for the parent-teacher meeting by listing down the questions you have for the teacher. You should always carry a notepad as well. Any suggestion given by the teacher should be noted down. This will make it easier to ask for an update at the next parent-teacher meeting. This way parents and teacher can continue working together to help kids.

Building a healthy parent-teacher relationship takes time and open communication. Parents and teacher working together can result in a well-adjusted child.

Also read: Why do parents and teachers need to communicate

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