How can you encourage parents to attend parent-teacher conferences?

1 Plan ahead

The first step to encourage parents to attend parent-teacher conferences is to plan ahead and inform them of the dates, times, and purposes of the meetings. You can use various methods to communicate with parents, such as emails, newsletters, phone calls, or online platforms. Make sure to send reminders and confirmations as the conference date approaches. You can also offer flexible scheduling options, such as morning, afternoon, or evening slots, or online or phone conferences, to accommodate different parents' availability and preferences.

2 Build rapport

The second step to encourage parents to attend parent-teacher conferences is to build rapport and trust with them. You can do this by sending positive messages and feedback about their children's achievements and behavior throughout the year, not just before or during the conferences. You can also invite parents to share their concerns, questions, or expectations for their children's learning and development. By showing interest and respect for the parents' perspectives, you can create a positive and collaborative relationship that motivates them to attend the conferences.

3 Prepare materials

The third step to encourage parents to attend parent-teacher conferences is to prepare materials and evidence that showcase their children's work and progress. You can use portfolios, samples, rubrics, assessments, or reports to demonstrate the children's strengths, areas of improvement, and goals. You can also prepare some questions or prompts to guide the conversation and elicit the parents' feedback and input. By having clear and relevant materials, you can make the conferences more informative and engaging for the parents.

4 Focus on solutions

The fourth step to encourage parents to attend parent-teacher conferences is to focus on solutions and action plans for their children's success. You can do this by highlighting the positive aspects of their children's performance and behavior, acknowledging the challenges and difficulties they face, and suggesting strategies and resources to help them overcome them. You can also ask the parents for their ideas and suggestions on how to support their children at home and at school. By focusing on solutions, you can make the conferences more constructive and productive for the parents.

5 Follow up

The fifth step to encourage parents to attend parent-teacher conferences is to follow up and maintain communication with them. You can do this by sending thank-you notes, summaries, or feedback forms after the conferences, and by updating them on their children's progress and achievements throughout the year. You can also invite them to participate in other school events, activities, or initiatives that involve their children. By following up, you can make the parents feel valued and appreciated, and encourage them to attend future conferences.

6 Evaluate and improve

The sixth step to encourage parents to attend parent-teacher conferences is to evaluate and improve your own practices and skills. You can do this by reflecting on your strengths and weaknesses as a communicator, facilitator, and collaborator, and by seeking feedback from the parents, colleagues, or supervisors. You can also research and learn from other teachers or experts on how to improve your parent-teacher conference techniques and strategies. By evaluating and improving, you can make the conferences more effective and satisfying for yourself and the parents.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?