Effective communication with parents is always a tall order, and as each child we encounter has different learning needs, each family representing them will as well. Taking into account a parent’s own past and past school experience, language, and personality really can effect their attitude and needs and calls for some individual action plans to keep the communication positive and active. Easier said than done at times!
Some common helpful hints that I have experienced or witnessed have helped pave the way to making and earning the best relationships. One thing that is done in my school division for the primary grades is the first day of school all students come in with their parent to meet the teacher at an assigned time so a positive friendly informal connection can begin the year.
I think it sets a positive vibe to be able to connect for a mere introduction and gives the teacher a chance to validate their intention and excitement to be able to teach Johnnie. I also love that meetings occur with parents to acknowledge and celebrate who their child is in the eyes of their parent, it can speak volumes of information as to the needs of the family.
Every parent wants to know that you care and it opens the door for sharing and caring together when they know your heart is in the right place.. It makes it easier to approach and include the parent when there are concerns. Body language, smiles and sharing your beliefs that all kids are a gift and special.
No one is good at everything but we are all good at something and it is a teacher’s desire to support that belief and help each child find out what their gifts are and help them pursue and develop them! I like the saying by George Evans Every student can learn, just not on the same day, or the same way.” When our heart is in what we do the children we teach and their parents will feel it and know that we are all on the same page!
One of my favorite sayings comes from Aristotle “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.”
For the Love of a child,
Cindy
P.S.
When I have had to talk to parent because of an issue, I lead my call home by saying I am calling cause I think the world of Johnnie, I love his energy and how he loves to draw. (Give a sincere truthful compliment) I am calling you cause I know you are a loving mom and wants the best for him so I thought we could brainstorm so that we can help him in this situation etc..good kids often can make bad decisions ..can go thru phases…share the information and work on a plan together. Follow-up with good news asap. Also keeping a information log to go back and forth to home can be helpful as well! School is around the corner! Happy Teaching to all!