Parents and teachers play critical roles in education. However, teachers often struggle to contact parents in case of issues with their child, and vice versa. Even experienced school teachers may need assistance effectively and regularly contacting parents. While it’s true that some parents may not have the time to be fully involved in their child’s schooling, they should still be informed about what’s happening. This requires a positive and communicative relationship between the parent and the teacher.
For your convenience, we have compiled a list of ten practical ways to maintain a cordial relationship and stay informed about your children’s academics. These tips are designed to be easily implemented in your daily interactions with teachers:
Be Friendly: Kindness goes a long way in parent-teacher communication in primary schools. Always be kind, inviting, and supportive when conversing by text, email, or in person. Make eye contact, shake hands, and smile at your parents when you see them in person.
Have a Positive Attitude: Positive thinking is the first step toward effective parent-teacher communication. When you initially reach out to a student’s parent or guardian, speak positively about the student. Positive energy is infectious, much like kindness.
Build Relationships: Respect is the cornerstone of any relationship, and positive communication is its building block. Ensure that your relationship with the teacher is founded on mutual respect, trust, and open dialogue. Express your appreciation for their dedication to your child’s progress. Participate in volunteer work, school events, and parent-teacher association activities to demonstrate your support for your child’s education. Remember, a positive approach can go a long way in fostering a healthy relationship.
Evaluate Academic Assessments Together: When discussing your child’s academic performance, it’s essential to focus on their accomplishments and improvement areas. Highlight their strengths, areas of growth, and progress, and consider seeking additional support at home and school if needed.
Acknowledge involvement: Parental involvement in their child’s schooling is not necessary. Elementary school instructors should recognize and appreciate parents and guardians for their efforts, whether it is as simple as taking the time to meet with you or participating in school events.
Be Attentive: Ensure you ask parents questions when they come to school—these questions don’t necessarily have to be formal. Basic questions like the child’s study habits and interests can go a long way. Pay attention and take in the details. You will be surprised how much information there is to share and how it will help you understand the child.
Understand Student Progress Holistically: When evaluating your child’s development, it is essential to take into account both their academic progress and social-emotional growth. It is important to have open discussions about their strengths, interests, and advancements across a wide range of subjects and areas.
Individual Support: Make sure to have a brief conversation with the teacher to evaluate your child’s progress and identify any areas that may require improvement. By doing so, you can work together to create personalized strategies that will benefit your child’s development. If needed, don’t hesitate to request additional support services or accommodations.
Accept The Feedback: Feedback is a valuable tool for growth, not a form of criticism. Embrace constructive feedback that helps you focus on improvement. Instead of resenting it, use it as an opportunity to discuss solutions for any issues or problems that may arise. This open-minded approach will not only benefit your child’s education but also strengthen your relationship with the teacher.
Set Goals Collaboratively: Set your child’s behavioral and academic goals together with the instructor. Ensure your objectives are time-bound, relevant, quantifiable, attainable, and specified. Create step-by-step action plans to assist your child’s development and track their progress.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of whether your child attends school in person or virtually, it is crucial for them to cultivate positive and meaningful connections with their teachers. An exceptional school will not only meet the standard requirements but also prioritize establishing strong bonds and maintaining open, effective communication with parents.
At Oasis International, we train teachers to interact with kids and families to encourage learning and healthy growth. Our approach is perfect for working professionals, and in line with national professional standards and license criteria, individuals who have family and job obligations can chat with the teachers as and when they get the time to get an update and maintain a healthy relationship.
