Teachers everywhere, some tips for you:
Here are some Do's and Don'ts of meeting with parents (whether it's a P-T conference or an IEP or whatever):
Do:
- Start with the positive
- Listen reflectively
- Make them feel valued and empowered
- Share ways they can help at home
- Speak tactfully
- Back up what you say with documented evidence
- Be late
- Go on the offensive
- Take ANYTHING personally (except maybe a compliment)
- Be blunt
- Raise your voice for any reason
- Antagonize
NEVER:
Start out by telling the mother: "Mama Bear, you're not going to like what I have to say". (Yes, this really happened!)
Start out by telling the mother: "Mama Bear, you're not going to like what I have to say". (Yes, this really happened!)
5 comments:
And no, I wasn't the one to say it!
You have learned much, grasshopper. Continue in your wise ways. dad
hug...kick....hug Mom
I'd say pretty much don't ever call the parent "Mama Bear," period.
I always start my conferences with good intentions, however, by the second hour of conferences you get pretty whoosy and light-headed and what comes out of your mouth is more the truth and less the tact...
Post a Comment