There are many parents that are so busy with work and their every day lives that they don't make it to the parent teacher conferences. They meet their child's teacher during orientation and that is it. When you are a parent of three or more children teachers understand how difficult it is for parents to attend parent teacher conference. Even if you work, there are new ways to communicate with your child's teacher. Email the teacher, call the teacher during his/her open conference period. Write them a note. Ask them what you can do to help your child further at home.
When you communicate with your child's teacher, you show the teacher that you are engaged in their learning process and are working with them each night. Help your kids with their homework by looking over their work and their homework schedule. Create a bulletin board where you post their art work or newly achieved math skills. Encourage them to always do their best and good results should follow.
Ask your child questions about their day. How does the teacher quiet the children. Does he or she yell at the children? Clap? Ring a bell? What is the discipline procedure for the class? Do they pull your child aside to discuss an issue or reprimand in front of the class. This is important and you may want to discuss this with the teacher.
"I scheduled a conference with my first graders teacher. She said that he would stand by the door and want to be alone. When she asked him why he was standing there he said he just wanted to stand for a little while. I thought for a moment why he might be doing this. I asked her if it was by chance between 2:30 and 3:00 P.M. She said, "Why, yes! It is." I explained to her that this was the time of day he usually does a number '2". I asked her if he is drinking water while in class and throughout the day. He may have trouble with constipation and standing may be helping him. From there on out he was able to drink from his water bottle periodically while in class. Between these times she allowed him to go the restroom. When I spoke with my son at home he explained that it is hard to do a number "2" when the entire class is waiting for you outside the bathroom in a line. Too much pressure! The teacher was appreciative because she never would have known this had the parent not brought it to her attention. Every child handles situations differently."
Know that your child's teacher is on your team! Your goal, together, is to improve your child's learning and development on a daily basis. No one likes surprises. You don't want to find out at the end of six weeks your child is failing or not cooperating in the classroom. Keep the communication open so there are no surprises.
Should your child's teacher suggest your child has a condition and should be tested (ADDHD, Dyslexia, etc.,)
Thank them for bringing this to your attention. Schedule an appointment with your child's Pediatrician. Let the Teacher know that you will examine this further with his/her Pediatrician. Your Pediatrician may refer you to a another specialist. You may discover your child is simply creative, highly energetic, expressive, and does not have the condition at all. Your ultimate decision for specialized education should always be checked first by a health care provider. Some schools may receive additional funding for special education. Some situations may require a certain percentage of students attend such classes to be eligible for the funding. If your child's teacher is recommending special education classes, make an effort to understand why. What is your child doing or not doing in class to give them this impression? Be thankful your child's teacher is interested in your child's development. Remember, the teacher is on your team.
Take the time to "Thank" your children's teacher(s) and coaches for the great job they are doing. Share with them something your child 'loves' about his/her classroom most. Imagine working with 20 or more children every day that are trying to get your attention. Not an easy job! They make a difference in your child's behavior for years to come in education. Show appreciation. If they are really remarkable, write to the Principal of the school, suggest they be nominated for "Teacher or Coach of the Month or Year. Explain why."
