Questions to Ask During a Parent-Teacher Conference

Make the Most of Limited Conference Time

Parent-teacher conferences are short, important conversations. Knowing which questions to ask and how to prepare ahead of time helps parents and teachers make the most of limited meeting time and leave with clear next steps that support the student. Studies show that schools with high parent involvement are more likely to have teachers who feel respected and valued.¹

This guide focuses on:

• The most important parent-teacher conference questions to ask
• How parents and teachers can prepare
• What to do after the conference to keep progress moving

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Conference time is limited, often just 10–20 minutes. Asking thoughtful, focused questions helps uncover what’s working, where a student may need support, and how families and teachers can work together more effectively.

Good questions:

• Keep conversations productive
• Prevent misunderstandings
• Lead to clear, actionable next steps
• Help everyone stay aligned on student goals

How to Prepare for a Parent-Teacher Conference

Preparation sets the stage for a better conversation and ensures time is spent discussing what matters most.

For Parents

Before the conference:

• Review recent schoolwork, grades, and teacher messages
• Talk with your child about what feels easy and what feels challenging
• Write down your top questions so nothing important is missed
• Plan logistics in advance so you can attend focused and on time

For Teachers

Before the conference:

• Review recent assignments, assessments, and observations
• Identify strengths to highlight and one or two priority areas to discuss
• Prepare specific examples to reference during the meeting
• Decide how next steps or goals will be captured after the conference

Scheduling conferences early and sharing time slots in one place helps everyone prepare more effectively.
👉 See how parent-teacher conferences are typically scheduled

Parent-Teacher Conference Questions to Ask (By Topic)

These parent-teacher conference questions are designed to help guide productive conversations. Not every question needs to be asked — choose the ones most relevant to your child and situation.

Questions to Ask Your Child Before and After the Conference

Including your child helps them feel involved and supported.

Before the Conference

• What part of school feels easiest or most enjoyable?
• What feels hardest right now?
• Is there anything you want me to talk to your teacher about?
• What goals do you want to work toward?

After the Conference

• How do you feel about the goals we discussed?
• Which ideas sound most helpful to you?
• What’s one thing you want to try this week?
• How can I support you at home?

Making the Most of the Conference Conversation

Start With Positives

Beginning with strengths and progress sets a collaborative tone and helps everyone feel comfortable sharing openly.

Collaborate on Solutions

Focus on strategies that can support learning both at school and at home. The goal is shared understanding, not perfection.

End With a Clear Plan

Before the meeting ends, make sure you’re aligned on:

• Specific next steps
• Who is responsible for what
• When it makes sense to check in again

After the Parent-Teacher Conference: What to Do Next

Share Key Takeaways With Your Child

Start with positives, then explain next steps in a supportive way so goals feel manageable and encouraging.

Put Plans Into Action

Depending on the conversation, this might include:

• Adjusting homework routines
• Creating a more consistent study space
• Using teacher-recommended resources

Stay Connected Throughout the Year

Conferences are just one checkpoint. Ongoing communication helps track progress and avoid surprises later on.

Ready to schedule your parent-teacher conferences?

Learn how schools use one shared sign up to schedule conferences, manage time slots, and keep families informed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring to a parent-teacher conference?
Bring a short list of questions, notes about your child’s experiences, recent assignments or report cards, and something to take notes with.

How long does a typical parent-teacher conference last?
Most conferences are scheduled for 10–20 minutes, so it helps to prioritize your most important questions.

What if I can’t attend the scheduled time?
Contact the teacher to request a different time, a virtual meeting, or a phone call. Many schools are flexible.

Can sensitive topics be discussed during a conference?
Yes. Conferences often cover both academic and social development. If a topic feels sensitive, you can ask for a follow-up conversation.

What happens after the conference?
You’ll usually leave with feedback and next steps. Staying connected throughout the school year helps reinforce what was discussed.

¹ Gitnux. Parent Involvement Statistics.