Maintaining Parent-Teacher Communication
How Parents can Stay in Touch with Their Child’s School
Dec 25, 2008
Most schools provide many communication channels for parents so that parents can be kept abreast of what’s happening at school, make inquiries, suggestions or complaints as well as raise matters concerning their child’s behavior or ability to adapt to school life. All these are made available to support a child’s learning.
Here are some ways for parents to stay connected with teachers and the school
In Person
Most schools practice an “open door” approach that encourages parents to talk to teachers directly. If it’s a small matter like asking the teacher to keep an eye on the child because he’s just recovered from an illness, just have q quick word with the teacher before school starts. If there is a need to talk a little bit more, catching the teacher after school will be a better idea. However, bear in mind that if the matter needs more attention, making an appointment prior with the teacher is highly recommended.
School Website
The school website is usually updated with the latest information regarding school and activities. Bookmark the address so that you can easily access the website when needed. The website will also have a “Contact” section where relevant telephone and fax numbers as well as email addresses are listed.
Parent-Teacher Interviews
There are at least two such sessions in each year – often one just after the new school year starts and another in the middle or towards the end of the year. The first session is usually an opportunity for parents and teachers to meet and get to know each other. It’s also a good time to tell the teacher about the child and raise certain issues about the child if needed. For example, if the child has some form of allergies, a mild learning disability or is prone to tantrum bouts, let the teacher know.
The subsequent parent-teacher interviews may touch more on how the child is progressing both academically and socially. Parents may also get to see the child’s work samples at school. These sessions are important and parents should ask as many questions as they can to support their child’s learning at school.
School Newsletters
All schools publish newsletters on a regular basis with many circulating newsletters weekly. Take the time to read these newsletters. They often contain information on current affairs at school, activities that children are taking part in, awards and accomplishments, canteen news and impending parents’ meetings. School newsletters also remind parents about important dates and help them understand elements of teaching and learning.
Parents’ Meetings
These are often held in the evening of a school day once a month. They provide an avenue for parents to discuss their children’s progress with other parents and teachers. Many parents choose not to be present at such meetings because they view them as a waste of time. Nothing can be further from the truth! Use these opportunities to raise concerns and ask questions. Parents’ meetings are particularly useful for parents who don’t send their kids to school personally and therefore have limited opportunities to speak to teachers.
Student Report Cards
Some schools send out report cards to parents twice a year or once each term. A report card outlines the child’s progress in his learning, sets out a future education plan as well as suggests ways for parents to help the child at home. It is also a tool for his teacher to flag up any behavior problems. So if you see comments that indicate further help is needed, talk to the teacher and see how improvements can be made.
These parent-teacher communication channels are created for parents. Be an involved parent and make the best of them to help your child learn and get on with school life.
To read more school-related articles, check out also Getting Ready for School, First Year at School and Easing School Anxiety in Children.
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