Parents and teachers have tough jobs. Both have to learn to manage children, and both have to learn how to communicate with children and each other. Even so, communicating with each other means carrying a conversation about the student, not about personal life or personal problems.
Parents and teachers need to be willing to set aside differences, and focus on the student. Here are tips to help teachers and parents communicate effectively.
Parents, be Honest
Parents need to inform their child's teacher of any behavioral or learning problems. The teacher needs to be aware of situations that might cause the student not to learn properly. Do not be afraid to talk to the teacher about learning or behavioral problems. They would much rather know about it than to find out on their own and then realize the parent knew but said nothing.
Before the school year begins, parents need to meet the teacher. The meeting is not only to mention problems with the student (if any exist), but also to get to know the teacher. Parents need to meet the teacher, and see how she interacts with them and the student.
Parents also need to discuss classroom expectations with the teacher. Knowing the rules and goals of the classroom is very beneficial to everyone. Students will know that mom and dad understand what is expected of them at school, and will expect mom and dad to want the same at home.
In many cases, especially for younger students, parents fill out "questionaires" about their child. Answer the questions truthfully. Do not be embarrassed by any issues that need to be addressed. It is always better to be honest. By doing so, the teacher will be appreciative and know that the parent respects him enough to tell the truth.
Teachers, Talk to Parents
Teachers should always listen to the parent, and hear what the parent is saying. Being a teacher is not easy. Having to control and teach 25 plus students is no easy task. However, it is important to show parents those at the school care about the students. One of the best ways to show that care is by listening to parents, and show some understanding.
Communication is key in a students' success, and it often falls on the teacher to be sure parents get the information they need for the student. Teachers should make handouts with a good contact number and email address to give to the parents. Keeping all communication options open is important. By doing this parents will be more willing to talk about the student, and ways to help.
Teachers should be willing to work with the parent in order to see the student succeed. Always offer advice on how to help the student, and let the parent know she can rely on the school to provide the best education and help possible.
Do tell parents of any learning concerns, and of any social concerns. This is simply to inform the parent so that he knows of the problem. Let him know the school is enforcing the rules, and will continue to support him in any way they can.
Always keep in mind, communication that goes on between the parent and teacher needs to be about the student. Focus on the student's needs, and ways to encourage her. Leave all other topics and personal issues out of the conversation; focus on the student.
How to Communicate
Parents and teachers need to talk to each other like they want to be talked to. Do not disrespect one another, and do not try to tell each other how to teach or parent. That is personal, and should not be the focus of the conversation.
Both need to listen to suggestions, and be ready to offer suggestions on how to help the student reach educational expectations.
Teachers should not belittle the student or the parent, and always make it a point to find something positive on which to focus. Parents get tired and worn out trying to fix problems, and they need some sort of positive feedback. If there is nothing positive, then at least give the parents hope as to what can be done to help the problem.
Parents need listen to the teacher, and help her as much as possible. Too often, parents think that the teacher is judging them, but that is not always the case. The teacher does not schedule conferences or meetings just to judge the parent, they schedule them to discuss problems or successes (or both) of the student.
The best way for both to communicate, is privately. Schedule a time to talk, and do not try to fit a five or ten minute conversation in right before or after school. With children leaving, teachers trying to go home or prepare for a meeting, and a number of things happening around the school; it makes having a successful talk impossible.
If a talk is needed, the teacher needs to inform the parent. Then the teacher should ask, what day and time would be good to talk. Both need to stick to the date and time, and offer ways to help one another in order to help the student.
The Student
Remember, the main reason to communicate successfully is, the student. The student needs teachers and parents who are willing to help him succeed. Parents who show interest in their child's education will more than likely see him work harder, and have a want to succeed.
Teachers who let the students know they are appreciated will notice students who want to do more and push themselves. The teacher has to be willing to change teaching styles, techniques, and plans, especially if it helps the class learn better and more efficiently.
Overall, always keep in mind, the student should be the focus of all communication. All conversations should be "mutual," and everyone needs to act professionally (even more so if the student is in the room). Show each other support by helping the student.
Source:
Laura Ramirez, online article with "Family Matters Parenting Magazine," Parent Teacher Communication-Tips for Creating a Strong Parent Teacher Relationship, 2006 (viewed October 15, 2010).
Allison Brown - My name is Allison. I have a degree in History and Political Science from Chaminade University, located on the beautiful Hawaiian island ...
