non dual teachers is much more than just learning book smarts; it is a place for children to learn proper social behavior and teamwork. Even if children are doing great academically, socially they could be failing. Parent-teacher conferences are very important, and will give valuable insight to both parties as to what they expect the student to learn.
Parents and teachers need to work together in order to help a student learn and be successful. Meeting the student’s teacher and understanding classroom rules and expectations is extremely important for parents. If parents know the rules of the classroom and the educational expectations, they will be able to enforce those expectations at home and help the student better adjust to those expectations.
Many parents may be fortunate enough to meet the teacher prior to a conference, or even be a volunteer to a teacher. Unfortunately, that is not always the case, and at times the parent-teacher conference will be the first time the two meet. If this is the case, please be open to what each other has to say, and always be sure to ask about positive information as well as negative.
In many cases teachers will sit down and present the student’s work to the parent, and then talk about any social issues that may need to be addressed. If the parent knows of any problems that need to be mentioned, this is the time to talk. The teacher, in most cases, will be happy to know of any problems the child might have and how it may effect his learning. The goal of the teacher at these conferences is not to belittle the parents or the student, or even to tell the parents how they should parent. The overall goal of the conference is to show the parent how the student has progressed and in what areas the student may need help.
Teachers will often suggest ways to help the student learn academic material at home, and may have ideas that work. If there is a discipline problem, the parent and teacher may be able to work on a system to enforce good behavior in and out of the classroom, which will help the student in all areas of learning. It is also comforting for teachers to know that the parents are willing to help their child seek a great education, and willing to make an effort in continuing their learning at home.
Parents often find that teachers are genuine in their comments, and are willing to help any way they can. Remember to go into the conference with a positive attitude and a willingness to offer opinions and suggestions on how to help the student.
