Productive school-family partnerships are a two-way street. You can do a lot of things as a parent to promote effective communication and a strong working relationship with your child’s school team.
1. Communicate positive feedback.
Be sure to do so at least as frequently as you offer suggestions or ask questions. After about a week of school, my son told me that he loved his school and that his classroom felt “so peaceful and fun.” Not only did this warm my heart and soul and put my mind at ease, but it also offered me a great opportunity to praise his teacher. She loved the compliment, and I loved making her feel good about her classroom environment.
2. Give little gifts.
Every once in a while, send your child’s teacher a little thank you card or a pack of gum for no particular reason. I sent in Lifesavers candy with my son’s school supplies and put a Burts Bee’s chapstick in his folder after a week, just as little treats for his teacher. When you purchase your teacher holiday and end-of-year gifts, go with gift cards and skip the mugs and candles.
3. Be proactive.
You are the expert on your child, so be sure to communicate important information with your child’s teacher. Your heads-up tips and tricks will better equip the teachers to support your child.
4. Get to know the go-tos.
Your child’s teacher isn’t the only adult in the building who has a vital role to play. Befriend the office staff and administration as well.
