I am an early childhood teacher (pre-K) and have the luxury/pressure of 30 minute conferences. I think it is great to start a parent conference with a story that shows some strength of the child: a specific anecdote about something the child said or did. I also spend some time explaining some of the curriculum- why we do what we do. I also send out an email prior to conference time, asking parents if there is anything in particular that they would like to discuss. I let them know that I want to be able to think about their question/concern ahead of time so I can be prepared.

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