Parent-Teacher Conferences, cont.

We definitely left with big smiles.

When my eldest daughter was in first grade, we just met with her teacher. We hadn't even realized that there were other teachers there.

Eventually we learned.

It's not always necessary to meet those other teachers, but it is often good "politics."

This way, the teachers knows who you are. This can be important in the future. If you have to call them, they can match a face to the voice.

It is also good for the teacher to know that someone is looking out for your child. This encourages accountability.

Believe it or not, there are many disinterested parents out there (a nicer way to describe their attitude would be "laissez faire"). Many Israeli parents "let their kids take care of themselves". This is seen as fostering independence. Being the American that I am, I am much more involved.

A child in elementary school does not have the tools, nor the skills, to take care of themselves.

Independence comes eventually, whether we are ready or not. I already see the early stages of independence in all three of my kids. Meanwhile, until they are self-sufficient, it is my job to make sure that they get the attention and care that they need.

My eldest was very quiet. We were able to draw the teachers' attention and enlist their assistance in helping her to participate more. Our "intervention" really helped.

Don't be scared. You know your child -- there aren't usually too many surprises at these meetings.

In general, teachers notice the louder kids and the "challenging" kids. It is often easy to overlook the quiet, well-behaved kids. I have two children who are inclined to be quiet and well-behaved (at least at school). They often need help advocating for themselves.

Together, we are trying to navigate the Israeli school system.

All in all, I'd say we are doing OK.

We haven't gotten too lost, yet.


Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.

With love and optimism,
RivkA