Partners In Success

Parent-teacher conferences can feel intimidating for many families—but they don't have to. In this special Cross Talk episode with our sister show Tiny Talks on Early Learning, we talk with Dr. Tricia Shelton and Paula Reese about how parents and educators can work together to better support children. Drawing from Dr. Shelton's new book, Partnering for Success: Strategies for Effective Parent-Teacher Conferences, the conversation offers practical tips for parents to feel more confident, heard, and empowered during school conversations—especially when navigating developmental differences or additional support needs. Key Takeaways for Listeners: Parents are valuable partners in their child's learning and development. Going into conferences with questions and goals can help parents feel more confident and involved. Strong parent-teacher relationships create better support systems for children. Conversations about challenges are more productive when everyone starts from a place of strengths and understanding. Even small shifts in communication can help families feel more connected, supported, and empowered.