Communication with Your Child's School Teacher: Helping Your Child's Teacher Help Your Child

Even though parents and teachers should be working as a team, many teachers find a gap there. Either the teacher is not communicating with the parents as often as she should, or the parents are not responding to messages sent home with much interest. As a former teacher, I know it can be frustrating for both sides when a child is not doing well in school or is having behavioral problems. We all ultimately want what is best for that child. A few tips can help you to help your child's teacher make the learning experience a positive one for your child.

First, let your child's teacher know from the beginning of the school year that you are an interested, involved parent. Arrange a conference with the teacher if possible, through the school secretary. Introduce yourself and tell the teacher about your child. Include any problems the child has had in the past with learning, and the strengths you see in your child. In other words, tell the teacher what makes your child special. This will move your child from being "a name I need to learn" to "Johnny, who loves math, is a little introverted and shy.." Contacting your child's teacher early in the school year will also let the teacher know that you care, that you want to be involved in your child's education, and how she can contact you.