How productive are today"s parent/teacher conferences? Not as productive as they once were; or so it appears. Clashes in the classrooms between parents and teachers have recently been identified as "the new power struggle." In one account, Gref Sarette, a Grade-school music teacher from Lakewood, CO, gave this statement.

"I called the parents on a discipline issue with their daughter... Her father called me a "total jerk." Then he said, "Well, do you want to meet someplace and take care of this man to man?"

In response to the cover story of TIME magazine"s, "What Teachers Hate About Parents" (Feb. 21, 2005), The Fran Briggs Companies has constructed a Tip Sheet. It offers guidelines for creating and maintaining healthy and positive partnerships between parents and educators.

Tips for Making Your Next Visit With Your Child"s Teacher a Positive Experience

1. Prepare for the Meeting in Advance

Take the time to plan for the meeting in advance. Children exceed expectations when they know that the adults in their lives are in unison about their success. Write down your child"s strengths and make a commitment to join forces with the educator on as many issues as you can.

2. Be on Time

Make every effort to be punctual. Being late can make any meeting awkward. And, don"t be too early. Your child"s teacher may have appointments scheduled before, and after you.

3. You"re a Professional, too!

Demonstrate your expertise. As a parent or guardian, you automatically qualify as an expert. When speaking with your child"s teacher, demonstrate your own sense of self-respect. You can use a calm voice tone and still speak with authority. Avoid ultimatums and coercive behavior at all costs.

4. Communicate With Compassion

Keep in mind that your child"s teacher experiences many of the same stressors of every day life as you do. Share your values with your child"s teacher. Don"t assume the teacher knows. Educating him can give him the insight needed to understand your views.

5. Dress a Cut Above the Rest

Look sharp! Remember, if you are a parent or guardian; you are a professional. Dress accordingly. There is nothing wrong with "dressing up" for a meeting with your child"s teacher. You will never see a child wince with embarrassment because his mother was seen wearing a "power suit" to his school. The proper attire can help you move and speak with confidence.


Additional tips can be found on the Articles page at: http://www.franbriggs.com