Learn how and when you should connect with your child’s teacher.
Now more than ever, it is important to create a connection and relationship with your child’s teacher. With many children participating in distance learning, it’s important to create a relationship where your child’s teacher can provide feedback. You have to know how best to support your child in their education and your child’s teacher has to understand your child’s needs, so that they can provide your child with necessary support. Research shows that if parents want their children to be successful in school, the best thing they can do is collaborate with the child’s teachers.
Connect with teachers right away.
Attend any orientations, back to school nights, or parent conferences. This will give you an understanding of how your child’s teacher runs their classroom and what is expected of your child. It also gives you a chance to get to know your child’s teacher and show that you are committed to your child’s education. This will make it easier to discuss future problems should they arise. Let the teacher know what you working on at home and what has been successful in managing these issues.
Once you have made that connection, maintain regular communication.
It’s important to keep your child’s teacher in the loop about events that may impact your child’s learning or behavior. For example, when your child’s teacher knows if there is a new baby, big move, divorce, or death in the family, they can offer helpful emotional support to your child.
Communicate any concerns or problems to your teacher right away, when they are easier to solve.
Many parents are hesitant to bring up issues with teachers, especially if it is a behavioral issue. When the issue is hyperactivity or disruptive behaviors, parents often feel a sense of embarrassment or feel as if it is a reflection of their parenting abilities. However, the sooner a teacher understands your child’s needs, the sooner services can be put in place to help your child be successful.
Know when to advocate for your child.
It is always best to try problem solving directly with the child’s teacher. However, if you addressed the problem with the teacher and your child’s academic performance is still being impacted, it’s okay to go above your children’s teacher. You may want to schedule a meeting with the school counselor or principal to see if they are able to provide you with additional support and resources. Don’t let the teacher or school intimidate you. Remember, you know your child best and they have a right to get their educational needs met.
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