1. What qualities make an effective family-staff conference? Teachers should assess their knowledge, skills, and attitudes following a conference with a family. Describe at least 10 characteristics that a teacher might include in such a self-assessment. How will you use this information when planning conferences?

2. Consider a teacher's use of (a) nonverbal communication, (b) giving and receiving criticism, and (c) conflict resolution. Describe ways in which she can be most effective in all three areas.

3. Explain the importance of two-way communication for building relationships and describe multiple ways that early childhood educators may implement two-way communication with families.

4. Family-teacher conferences are complex. Describe interpersonal communication factors and developmentally appropriate practices that must be considered in planning and implementing such conferences.

5. What type of situation do you believe will be difficult when interacting with families? Consider techniques from Chapter 8 and describe how you might implement one or more of them.