Monday, November 19, 2012

In Honor of Conferences and Thanksgiving

I'm happy to say that conferences are checked off my list of things to do.  I'm also happy to say that the reward for my efforts is a whole week off for Thanksgiving.  (insert smile)  

Anyway, while I was in the midst of conferences, I gave any waiting parents something enjoyable to do, which is really important considering how easy it is to get behind schedule.  It's harder for parents to be upset about the wait when they get to spend a few extra minutes reading these little treasures.


You see, I believe in the power of classroom books.  (Look here if you'd like to see some of the ones we make.)  We're just getting started, but by the end of the year, there's enough for everyone to take at least two home as souvenirs.  The parents waiting for conferences love these almost as much as my first graders. 

I also gave the parents something to think about while they were waiting.  

In honor of Thanksgiving and positive conferences, I started each one with something I was thankful for in regards to the little ones.  It was nice to hear what the parents were thankful for as well.

(In my attempt to keep parents informed and fill the gaps that report cards leave wide open, I've got a form that lets them know where the child is at, what I wish for them, and how we're going to get there.  Look here to see a copy of what I mean.)


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12 comments:

  1. Brilliant! These people are abundantly blessed that their children are part of your class family . . . WoWzA!!

    Happy Thanksgiving,

    Barbara

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    1. Thank you Barbara for filling my bucket this morning. You are great at that!

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  2. I am a firm believer in class authored books as well. Students always enjoy reading the class made books.
    Connie Anderson:)
    www.welcometofirstgraderoom5.blogspot.com

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  3. How perfectly lovely. Thank you for sharing such thoughtful teaching. I am thankful for all you share and for being your blog friend.

    Kimberley
    1stinmaine.blogspot.com

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    1. Kimberley, thank you for such sweet and thoughtful words. I appreciate you as well.

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  4. That is a lovely way to start your conferences. Happy Thanksgiving - enjoy your week!

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    1. Mary, thank you and Happy Thanksgiving to you too.

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  5. Tammy, your students and parents are so blessed to have you! I would have loved to sit in on a conference or two with you!
    Lori
    Conversations in Literacy

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    1. Thanks Lori. If Missouri weren't so far away, I would have invited you over.

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  6. I wish I had a first grader in your room, so I could wait for a conference and be inspired by all your classroom books. Thank you so much for the report card, too! I don't have enough room on mine for comments and this would be a great addition to what I have. Thanks for sharing!
    Jenny
    Owl Things First!

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    1. Jenny, that's so very sweet of you. I'm glad you'll be able to use the report card sheet. Thank you for coming by.

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