Navigating the Parent-Teacher Conference: Top 10 Questions to Ask for Your Child’s Success

posted by Karen Quinn, The Testing Mom - November 1st, 2023

The beginning of a new school year is an exciting time filled with new beginnings, goals, and the promise of academic growth. One essential part of this phase is the first parent-teacher conference. This meeting is a powerful opportunity for parents to understand their child’s learning environment, establish open communication with the teacher, and pave the way for their child’s academic success.

As a parent, knowing the right questions to ask during this conference can help you gain meaningful insights into your child’s school life. Here are the top ten questions to guide your conversation.

Top 10 Questions to Start the Conversation During a Parent-Teacher Conference

1. “What will my child be expected to learn this year?”  Understanding the educational milestones and curriculum for the year will give you a clear idea of what your child will be studying and the skills they’ll be expected to develop. This knowledge will allow you to align your support at home with what’s happening in the classroom.

2. “How is progress assessed in your class?” Different teachers might have different methods to evaluate a student’s progress. Understanding these methods — whether they’re traditional tests, project-based assessments, or class participation — can help you better interpret your child’s performance and progress reports.

3. “What are my child’s strengths and areas for improvement?” This question will help you understand where your child excels and where they might need more support. Having this information can assist you in providing targeted support at home and praising your child’s efforts effectively.

4. “How do you accommodate different learning styles in your classroom?” Children have different learning styles — some are visual learners, while others may be auditory or kinesthetic learners. Knowing how a teacher accommodates these different learning styles can provide insight into how your child will be taught.

5. “How can I support my child’s learning at home?” A strong school-home connection significantly impacts a child’s educational success. Asking this question will give you specific strategies or practices to reinforce what’s being taught at school, making learning a more cohesive experience for your child.

6. “What is your homework policy?” Understanding the teacher’s expectations regarding homework — its purpose, how often it’s assigned, and the estimated time required to complete it — can help you establish a consistent homework routine at home.

7. “How does my child interact with others?” Social skills and the ability to interact with others are essential aspects of a child’s development. This question will give you insights into your child’s social behavior, friendships, and how they handle conflicts.

8. “What are the opportunities for me to get involved in the school community?” Parental involvement in school activities can enhance the child’s sense of belonging and improve their academic success. Inquire about opportunities like volunteering, parent workshops, or school committees.

9. “What are the best ways to communicate with you?” Effective communication between parents and teachers is vital. Some teachers might prefer emails, while others may use phone calls, parent portals, or apps. Understanding the preferred communication method will ensure smoother exchanges in the future.

10. “What can we do to prepare for the next parent-teacher conference?” Preparation for future meetings begins now. Ask what the teacher’s expectations are for the next conference and how you can prepare.

Remember, a parent-teacher conference isn’t a one-sided conversation. It’s a collaborative dialogue aimed at ensuring the best possible educational experience for your child. Listen carefully, ask follow-up questions, and share relevant information about your child that could aid the teacher in their approach.

Creating a strong parent-teacher partnership can have profound effects on your child’s school experience and academic outcomes. By asking these crucial questions during the first parent-teacher conference of the school year, you’ll equip yourself with the knowledge and understanding to fully support your child’s academic journey.