Parent-teacher conferences are a vital part of your child’s education. They offer a unique opportunity to engage with your child’s teacher, understand your child’s progress, and address any concerns. But often, these meetings can be brief and packed with information. To make the most of your time, it’s essential to come prepared with thoughtful questions.
This grade-by-grade parent teacher conference checklist will help you ask the right questions, understand what your child needs at each stage, and build a stronger partnership with teachers.
Questions to Ask Your Child’s Preschool Teacher
Preschool sets the foundation for lifelong learning. Focus on questions that address your child’s readiness for more structured schooling and age appropriate milestones.
- How is my child adjusting to the classroom environment, structure and routines?
- What social skills is my child developing, such as sharing and empathy, waiting his/her turn.
- What activities does my child enjoy most?
- Is my child meeting developmental milestones?
Questions to Ask Your Child’s Kindergarten Teacher
Kindergarten is a pivotal time in your child’s education, as they transition from a play-based environment to a more structured learning setting that prepares them for grade school.
- How is my child meeting early literacy and math milestones for their age group.
- How does my child interact with peers?Understanding your child’s social interactions can provide insight into their ability to work and play well with others, a crucial skill at this stage.
- Does my child stay focused considering the appropriate attention span for their age?
- Does my child express emotions appropriately in class? How they handle frustration, empathy, excitement…
- How does my child interact with classmates? Are they making friends?
- Do they follow directions and classroom routines independently?
- What are my child’s strengths and areas for improvement?
Questions to Ask Your Child’s Elementary School Teacher
As your child progresses through elementary school, the questions should reflect their growing academic responsibilities and social awareness.
Grades 1–2
Children are developing core reading, writing, and math skills while learning independence.
Questions to Ask:
- Is my child reading at grade level, and how can I help at home
- How are their writing skills progressing (spelling, sentences, comprehension)?
- How do they respond when they don’t understand something—do they ask for help
- Do they complete homework and classwork independently?
Grades 3–5
Upper elementary focuses on deeper comprehension, problem-solving, and social development.
Questions to Ask:
- How is my child doing with reading comprehension and writing organization?
- Are they able to explain their math thinking and solve word problems?
- How do they contribute to group projects or discussions? Are they a leader, contributor, or do they struggle?
- What study habits should they start building now for later success?
Questions to Ask Your Child’s Middle School Teacher – Grades 6–8
These years bring more independence, complex subjects, and social-emotional changes.
Questions to Ask:
- How is my child adjusting to multiple teachers and classes?
- Are they managing assignments, deadlines, and organizational skills well?
- What are their strengths and struggles in specific subjects?
- How are they handling peer relationships and social pressures?
- What strategies will prepare them for high school success?
Questions to Ask Your Child’s High School Teacher (Grades 9–12)
High school years focus on preparing for college, careers, and adult responsibilities.
Questions to Ask:
- Is my child on track to meet graduation requirements?
- What are their strengths and weaknesses academically?
- Are they engaged in class and participating actively?
- What post-secondary paths (college, trade school, career) seem like a good fit?
- Are there opportunities for advanced classes, extracurriculars, or leadership roles?
- What resources can support their long-term goals (study skills, SAT/ACT prep, career counseling)?
Universal Questions to Ask Your Child’s Teacher, Regardless of the Grade Level:
- Always ask how you can support your child’s learning and social skills at home?
- What is the best way to communicate with you?
- Does the school offer additional resources that can support your child’s learning and development?
- How do you handle challenges or mistakes in the classroom
- Are there any concerns with confidence, frustration, or behavior?
- What do you enjoy about having my child in your class?
- Are there any upcoming projects or tests we should prepare for?
- Are there any extracurricular activities you would recommend based on his strengths and challenges? Sports, crafts, music
- Is there anything else you think I should know about my child’s experience at school?
Parent-teacher conferences are an invaluable opportunity to engage with your child’s education. By asking the right questions, you can gain insights into their academic and social development and learn how to best support them outside of school. With these questions as a guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most out of your next parent-teacher conference.
