Tips for parent-teacher relations
Winning over your students’ parents is just as important as your interaction with their children. Here’s how to get them on your side throughout the year:
- Before school starts, mail a postcard to each student. Write a bit about yourself and welcome them to your classroom.
- Send home a questionnaire to ask parents whether they’d like to volunteer and what talents they might be able to offer.
- Keep the lines of communication open all year. This can be accomplished through email newsletters or a classroom website.
- Be positive in all interactions with parents. Focus on solutions to problems their children may be having. If parents feel comfortable with you, they will be more receptive to your concerns if things get rocky.
Six tips for productive parent-teacher conferences
1. Plan ahead. Have a general plan of what you’re going to say. Include the student’s academic strengths and needs. Then, propose a plan of action, and be prepared for questions.
2. Be aware of the parents’ needs. Offer flexible time choices. Invite both parents, and be sure to get their names right. Don’t assume Jane Doe’s mother is Mrs. Doe.
3. Be sure not to create a physical barrier between you and the family. Come out from behind your desk for the conference.
4. Share examples of the student’s work. Begin the conference with a warm, positive statement about the child’s abilities, work or interests. Ask students to help select portfolio items.
5. Be deliberate in your comments. Use specific examples and focus on solutions and goals. Get parental input and emphasize collaboration.
6. Achieve closure. Summarize the actions that you and the parents have agreed to take. End on an optimistic note.