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Parenting & Education in Ireland

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Parenting & Education

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Four Quick Tips for

Breaking the Ice at Primary

Parent-Teacher Meetings



Meeting the parents of the children you have been teaching for the first time can be daunting for any teacher. They have put their child's education in your hands and naturally they will have questions and enquiries about the past few months.

Part of the reason for such anxiety on both sides is the formality which these meetings can often take on. Here's our tips for breaking the ice when you meet the parents to help create a positive meeting.

Step 1:
Create an inviting environment.


Many parents may still have remnant memories of school from their own childhood, good or bad. Make the room in which you are conducting the meeting as welcoming as you can. Sitting behind a big desk can create a more formal setting while sitting to the side of the desk can make the setting a little more relaxed . Having a bowl of sweets on the table can be a nice touch too!



Step 2:
Open up a dialogue


In preparation for the meeting, get the class to draw self portraits of themselves about a week before. Display the portraits in the classroom, or bring them with you in a folder, and ask the parents if they can pick out the portrait their child has drawn. This exercise will allow a natural opening dialogue about the child without being forced.





Step 3:
Ask the Parents to give their own report


Parent Teacher meetings are a two-way street. Instead of jumping straight into your own report, ask the parent's how they think their child performs at home while doing homework. Do they ask for help often? In what subjects? How long do they usually spend on homework? Their report will provide a window for you to elaborate on the child's progress in the classroom, what areas they can improve upon and what you plan to do to ensure they overcome any problem.




Step 4:
Finally, boost your students confidence!


Parent Teacher meetings are stressful for the kids too. Giving the parents a 'Well Done' or a 'Good Job' sticker to take home to their child will put the child's mind at ease.





What do you think teachers? Have you some helpful tips to share? Comment below to add your own ideas and feedback




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