Check in with your child’s teacher before the end of the year
In the rush of activities during the final days of the school year, it’s smart to take time to talk to your child’s teacher(s) about your child’s progress. Reports cards can only tell you so much. Here are some key questions to ask:
1. What were my child’s strengths and weaknesses?
2. Is there anything we should work on over the summer to ensure a smooth transition to the next grade?
3. What is my child’s reading level? Ask your teacher to show you a few books appropriate for your child’s reading abilities, so you will have a clear idea of what types of books to look for.
Many high schools have reading lists for the summer. Be sure to check your school’s Web site or ask your child’s English teacher.
4. What will my child be working on next year? If you are in California, please look at Such A Smart Mom’s Smart (and free) Guides where you will find state academic standards for each grade. The guides will show you exactly what your child will be working on next year and what he should have learned this year. You will also find our free Smart Moves: On the Road to College.
5. Do you have any materials that you can suggest I use at home this summer?
