Surviving Open House: A Teacher's Guide to Greeting Parents

In most of the schools I have taught in, Open Houses are strictly for socializing and not for discussing problems with students. If this is the case for you, plan to enjoy meeting your student's parents, for that is your first priority. If a parent does try to discuss concerns, tell them you will be happy to make an appointment with them for a later time. In fact, many schools have "Conference" times that are for this purpose. The Open House is usually not for this purpose. Remembering what this is called should help you focus on your role. It is an "Open House" - visitors are your guests, and it is your job to make them as comfortable as possible.

I try to have a number of things in place prior to the Open House. I run copies of my Course Of Study for all classes I teach in case parents would like more information about my class. I also place copies of all textbooks and novels taught on the front desks of my room or on a display table.

An easy conversation-starter for me is my collection of over 3,000 novels that belong to me and that I allow my students to sign out from my classroom; however, some parents may not be interested in them. I allow parents to browse these novels if they wish and if there is time, and to even sign them out if they wish.

I also try to have student work displayed around the room, even for older students. Most parents like to look for their child's work. My son is now in high school and I still haven't outgrown the fun of finding my son's work along a wall of student papers or posters.

I also try to make sure my desk is as neat and orderly as possible, but not so neat that it appears as if no work gets done there. Usually our Open Houses are in the middle of a busy work week, so I do allow my classroom to remain functional.

Just as I always do, I write all of the lesson information and homework reminders on my chalk boards so that parents can see what we are currently working on.

I also keep a sampling of hot tea in my room so I make sure I have extra cups, flavors, sugar, honey, etc. and add a sign for parents to help themselves.

At one school I was in, parents were given their child's daily schedule and moved about from one class to another for ten minutes per class to meet each teacher, and to get a feel for what their child does each day. During the "lunch" time, they went to the cafeteria for punch and cookies. This is an excellent idea, but can be stressful for a new teacher. If your school does this, don't panic. Prepare a sample lesson for them that is brief, simple, fun, and one that has always worked with your students; and find a way to have all parents participate.

Dress professionally, but not decked out to the point that parents may not identify or relate to you. Wear a simple, tailored suit in a deeper color. Be neat, not flashy. Smile a lot, shake hands, look parents in the eye, and try to come up with something positive to say about their child, even if it's not easy (!)

Finally, remember that chances are, your child's parents are at least as apprehensive about attending the Open House as you are. Smile and do what you do every day - stand in front of your classroom making a positive impression and connecting with as many of your guests as possible.