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Fall is a great time to plant bulbs, shrubs, and trees. These plants are beginning to go into their dormant state, and the soil temperatures are still warm compared to the air—an ideal environment for root development. It's also a great time of year to move any trees or shrubs that you want to relocate to a different part of your yard or to a new home.

There’s nothing better for a garden than compost. Fall is a particularly good time to compost because just about everywhere you look there are leaves—they’re made up of complex chemicals that once broken down provide plenty of nutrients for plants. Taking care of your landscape in the fall will help promote healthy plants and shrubbery in the spring!

You’ve been asked to attend a regularly scheduled “report card” conference with your child’s teacher. Or you’ve received a note from the teacher requesting a meeting.

Don’t worry! Meetings with teachers are great opportunities for you to help your child improve in school. The National PTA of the National Education Association offers these suggestions to parents for preparing for productive teacher conferences:

Δ Talk to your child before the conference. Find out what subjects she likes and dislikes, and why. Ask your child if there is anything she would like you to discuss with her teachers. Reassure your child that the purpose of the meeting is to help her.

? Make a list of things you want to tell the teacher about your child. A meeting provides an opportunity to help the teacher learn more about your child. Include information about your child’s home life, personality traits, problems, habits and interests.

? Ask questions. Some suggestions:

• Is my child in different groups for different subjects? Why?
• How well does my child get along with others?
• What are my child’s best and worst subjects?
• Is my child working up to his or her ability?
• Does my child participate in class discussions and activities?
• Has my child missed any classes other than ones I contacted the school about?
• Have you noticed any sudden changes in the way my child acts? For example, have you noticed any squinting, tiredness or moodiness that might be a sign of physical or other problems?
• What kinds of tests are being given? What do the tests tell about my child’s progress? How does my child handle taking tests? It’s a good idea to ask your most important questions first, just in case time runs out.

? Ask the teacher for specific suggestions on ways to help your child do better. This is the most important part of the meeting. It will become your action plan.

Many families choose a home because of its location near the best schools. I can provide you with a free “report card” on the schools in neighborhoods near you. Call me for more information.