Good relationship between families and schools is necessary for the pupil’s success. It has been proven that the more parents and teachers that go along well the greater is the chance of the pupils to achieve academically. A positive parents – teacher relationship helps the child feel good about the school and be successful in school. Here are some of the suggestions on how a teacher could build a positive relationship with parents.
The first thing the teacher should do is to communicate with them well. In every relationship, communicating well is the key factor in making good relationships. Talk to them with respect. A teacher should not always expect that he should only be the one to be respected because of his profession. Teachers should learn to use kind words in dealing with parents. A smooth flow of information between parents and teachers will have positive impact on the part of the pupils.
Conduct homeroom PTA meetings regularly. Homeroom PTA meetings are vital in making the parents well – informed about their child’s progress in school. It will also provide the opportunities to know them and be familiarized with them. As much as possible, know their names. Remembering their names will make them feel good and be motivated in attending meetings.
Let parents know that they can help. Involve them in decision-making. Try to seek for their assistance on school matters which they can contribute. Asking help from them will make them feel that they are valued. This will motivate them to take actions in participating on the different programs and projects of the school.
If possible, conduct home visitations. This strategy will let them realize that you are willing to devote your time just to meet and talk to them with regards to school matters and with their children.
This is also one way of encouraging them to engage themselves in supporting the activities of the school. This could also develop the feeling that you value their children a lot that you exerted effort in visiting them thus creating that feeling that they themselves should also start giving enough attention to their children’s schooling. If you can’t do visitations, giving them phone calls will also do you a favour.
Admit to yourself that you need parents in helping your pupils. You cannot do the job alone. Stop bragging that you don’t need them. Remember that parents are the children’s teachers at home. They know their children better than we. Working collaboratively with parents will surely be of great impact to you as a teacher. It’s like finding a tandem in developing and improving the abilities of your pupils.
Following these few suggestions will surely help you a lot as a teacher. Always remember that by working positively, you can help your learners achieve their full potential.
By: Annacel A. Tolentino | T-I | Casupanan Elementary School
