In September, ask the teacher for fifteen minutes: not a conference, nothing formal, no concerns, just to introduce your child properly and learn how you can help this year. Teachers almost never get offered this; most say yes with relief. Bring the one-page introduction and walk them through it in your own words. Ask three questions, then listen: what does this year look like from your side of the desk, what is the most useful thing a family can do for you, and how do you like to hear from parents when something small comes up. Offer one concrete thing, whatever its size. Do not bring a list of concerns, and do not stay past your fifteen minutes. Kindergarten families in Seattle: your family connection day is this meeting, already on the calendar; arrive with your page. When the formal season arrives, the person across the table will not be a stranger.