Parent Teacher Conferences

It's that time of the school year again when I go sit down for a real one on one with my children's individual teachers -- for 15 minutes. This falls into the category of a thing I feel I should do but don't necessarily want to do. Sure I'm curious how my children act and interact when I'm not around. And I certainly want to make sure they are on track academically for where they are supposed to be at their ages. Then again...

I have to admit I am not concerned with grades at all. Now this tune would likely change if both of my kids started bringing home very low grades or seemed to be struggling in any way. What I really think school is for is to break their little spirits. Oops, did I say that out loud? What I mean is I think the main benefit of school is to teach our little ones how to interact with others. How to get along. How to study. Basically, how to navigate being human. Now I'm not leaving it all up to the schools to be sure but I believe they gotta get away from me and all that is home for a period of time to adequately learn these things.

So as I am sitting there looking at spelling, math and other tests and hearing their "level" I am always really listening for any indication of how my child is really doing. That's great stuff and all but there are really more pressing concerns on my mind. My child's teacher asked me to write down any questions I might have, tell about any "special" family situations that might affect my child, talk about concerns, etc. And all this in 15 minutes! Ok, here's my list of real concerns that I will never actually share with my child's teacher:

- Do you ever see my child pick her nose and eat it? Do you notice any bad habits that are unusual? If so, do other kids make fun of her?
- Do other kids ever make fun of her and if so, for what?
- Does she seem terribly maladjusted due to the divorce of her father and I?
- Does she have friends?
-Does she seem happy?
-Does she seem comfortable?
-What would you say about my child to your best friend?

Okay, maybe I don't want all that. Maybe I would be fine with the report card and the papers and tests that come home though. I am proud of the little people they are and are becoming no matter what -- pending the outcome of my first conference this evening. Will keep you updated