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.)