Working Cooperatively With Teachers: A Parent Guide
April 20th, 2011
Working cooperatively with teachers: A parent guide to be the mediator and communicator between student and educator.
The parent understands the personality of his or her child better than anyone else does. This is why communication between the teacher and parent is not only vital but also mandatory to bring out the best potential of the child. Many teachers are so concerned that when they attempt to reach out to the busy parent that their calls for communication are often ignored. Especially if a child begins to have issues with grades or even fellow students and has problems communicating to the teacher. The parent will be the bridge to bring understanding to the situation. The teacher may not be aware of a serious issue the student is dealing with at home or in their friendship circle. Sometimes death, sickness or divorce may affect the student and a parent teacher conference will shed light on the issue. After communicating with the parent, the teacher will have a better understanding how to assist the child to overcome and move forward.
The cooperation and connection between parents and teachers is the lifeline to give each student a fair chance at receiving the best learning environment at school.
The parent understands the personality of his or her child better than anyone else does. This is why communication between the teacher and parent is not only vital but also mandatory to bring out the best potential of the child. Many teachers are so concerned that when they attempt to reach out to the busy parent that their calls for communication are often ignored. Especially if a child begins to have issues with grades or even fellow students and has problems communicating to the teacher. The parent will be the bridge to bring understanding to the situation. The teacher may not be aware of a serious issue the student is dealing with at home or in their friendship circle. Sometimes death, sickness or divorce may affect the student and a parent teacher conference will shed light on the issue. After communicating with the parent, the teacher will have a better understanding how to assist the child to overcome and move forward.
The cooperation and connection between parents and teachers is the lifeline to give each student a fair chance at receiving the best learning environment at school.
Working With Parents: A Guide For Teachers
April 5th, 2011
Building a strong, supportive relationship between teachers and parents takes some effort, but it's time well spent. Here's some ideas:
-Ask for their insight- Parents know their children better than anyone, and it's worth your time to tap into this valuable resource. At the beginning of the year, send out a brief survey asking about the child's interests, preferred ways to learn, and favorite hobbies. You can capitalize on the info when designing instruction.
-Stay in touch- As a parent, I love hearing about what is happening in my child's classroom. If I know that this week is Insect Week or that my kid is studying the Civil War, I've got some ideas of questions that I can ask to get a conversation started with my child.
-Share more positives than negatives- Instead of only calling home when you have bad news, try making at least 5 positive phone calls a week sharing a successful assignment, an insightful contribution to a discussion, or an exemplary example of behavior. You will surprise your parents, and they will be thrilled to hear some positive feedback. It's a great way to build a buffer for when you have to call for their help!
-Ask for their insight- Parents know their children better than anyone, and it's worth your time to tap into this valuable resource. At the beginning of the year, send out a brief survey asking about the child's interests, preferred ways to learn, and favorite hobbies. You can capitalize on the info when designing instruction.
-Stay in touch- As a parent, I love hearing about what is happening in my child's classroom. If I know that this week is Insect Week or that my kid is studying the Civil War, I've got some ideas of questions that I can ask to get a conversation started with my child.
-Share more positives than negatives- Instead of only calling home when you have bad news, try making at least 5 positive phone calls a week sharing a successful assignment, an insightful contribution to a discussion, or an exemplary example of behavior. You will surprise your parents, and they will be thrilled to hear some positive feedback. It's a great way to build a buffer for when you have to call for their help!