Parent-Teacher Conference

Tree painting by Buby.



Our first parent-teacher conference was last Thursday. The meeting was a success, though I admit I need to get used to the idea of hearing someone else ~ someone I don't really know yet ~ try to sum up my Buby's social/ emotional/ cognitive/ art/ work/ and muscle development on one two-sided sheet of Hammermill. But he's 3 now, which means he interacts with teachers, teacher's aids, parent chaperons, a principal, and new friends without me around. To protect him. To encourage. To smile at unexpected hiccups. To interject when necessary. I guess that's all part of growing up... as parents. We get report cards now. And a 15-minute time slot twice a year.


In the comments section, Cathy {who I like A LOT} wrote that Buby "is a respectful, caring and polite little boy. He has adjusted nicely to our daily routine and seems to enjoy school." Cool. She added that he is social and has several close buddies in the class. He has especially bonded with John, Jackson, and Carrie. Also in the Fall Academic Report...


Buby is "secure" in these categories:

• Accepts the limits and routines of the classroom
• Willing to share
• Respects rights of others
• Shows pride in accomplishments
• Recognizes the feelings of others and themselves
• Manages transitions
• Remains with task until finished
• Is able to initiate an activity
• Demonstrates appropriate attention span
• Shows an interest in art experiences
• Is able to work independently
• Picks up after self and does daily jobs
• Can run, jump and climb comfortably
• Is aware of personal space
• Can pedal a tricycle
• Manages manipulatives comfortably
• Pours with control
• Participates in multi-sensory activities
• Put on coat, buttons, zippers

Buby is "developing" in these areas:

• Following two or more oral directions in a timely manner

{me: We know Buby is poky and likes to control how fast or slow he reacts. We're working on this at home, too! Cathy said he does not do it in a disobedient way at all and has never said "No" or given her a hard time. It's just that he often ignores her as if she's not even there when she is trying to direct him to do something. She wants to brainstorm ideas with us.}

• Can use scissors comfortably

{me: My bad. It's one small muscle skill I rarely let him practice, even though Grandma bought him kid-safe scissors a year ago. We craft... I cut.}

• Selects a wide range of activities

{me: Yes. He's a total creature of habit. I could see this one coming. During "free play" at school he often chooses the same thing. Trains.}

• Volunteers to be a leader on stage

{me: Buby's shy performing in front of large groups of peers and simply needs encouragement and patience here. I bet he will be joining his friends on stage by spring. And if we're lucky... the winter recital}.