The importance of establishing Parent- Teacher Relationships The why’s and how’s of effective communication Jennifer Walker

Parent Teacher Relationships A solid parent-teacher relationship is the foundation in which families get involved with their student’s education. Initiating positive communication early is proven to yield encouraging results for students, parents, and their teachers!

Teacher Benefits You can learn about students’ needs and home environments through parents. Are there strategies used to combat behavior at home? Does the student have multiple siblings causing attention issues? When you know that your parents are involved and onboard: You have more time to teach when parents help control other issues! You have a heightened morale knowing your students and parents are on the right track!

Parent Benefits The stronger communication a parent has with the school, the more motivated they will be to get involved. Schools give parents ideas on how to help and support their children at home. Continuous informative communication increases a parent’s knowledge on the school’s overall educational style and program.

Student Benefits Parent-Teacher relationships triggers positive results in students. Increased motivation and better attitude towards school. (School is cool enough for parents to get involved, so the student’s find an increased interest.) Better behavior (They do not want parents to find out via the open lines of communication.) Better attendance HIGHER ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT!

What should teachers inform parents about? Classroom learning activities Projects In class expectations At home expectations Educational Field Trips Student’s accomplishments Interim Grades Significant milestones Ways parents can help student learn at home Homework Help Supplemental Resources (found on teacher’s website)

Effective TWO-WAY communication Parent-Teacher Conferences Mutual Organizations (PTA) Send-home parent surveys Phone Calls Emails Open House events

There are examples of parent-teacher phone calls on the internet. Phone Etiquette Plan ahead and write down what your plan to address. Introduce yourself. Inform the parent on what their child is studying. Inform the parent of student’s achievements. Inform the parent of student’s progress and strengths. Address any concerns. Invite the parent to any upcoming school functions. There are examples of parent-teacher phone calls on the internet.

Effective ONE-WAY communication Send school work home periodically Essays or extensive Projects Send home weekly or monthly newsletters Post on teacher’s website as well Email upcoming opportunities Parent workshops or parent volunteer options at school Send home flyers of community events Events that students and parents can attend together

When using any of these forms of communication: FOLLOW THESE STRATEGIES Initiate communication early in the school year. Be timely with communication, especially when regarding a problem or concern. Be consistent so parents can expect updates and become familiar with the open line of communication. Follow through with anything you suggest or discuss with a parent. Be clear with the language used to communicate. Do not “beat around the bush”, or parents might miss the important message.

Don’t Forget: Parents LOVE random, positive feedback about their children. Parents appreciate knowing a teacher has an open door policy. Parents are more likely to access online resources to acquire information: Put time and effort into your teacher website.

References and Resources Reading Rocket (Building Parent-Teacher Relationships) Scholastic (9 Techniques for Building Solid Parent-Teacher Relationships) Google images (clipart)