Consider these tips for improving connections with this valuable group:
1. Smile When You See Parents
Greet them. Most parents only occasionally interact with teachers so make sure that at least 90 percent of your encounters with them are positive, warm, and friendly. The impressions left from fleeting encounters in the hallway last a long time.
2. Learn Their Names
Learn how they like to be addressed by their first name or last name, and how to pronounce them correctly.
3. Declare Your Intention
Tell them that you want to partner with them, that you appreciate their support, and look forward to working together.
4. Communicate Often and in Various Forms
Provide information about what’s going on in your class , what students are learning, what they’ve accomplished, what you’re excited about, what they’re excited about, and the learning and growth you’re seeing.
5. Lead with the Good News
Give positive praise first when calling parents or meeting with them to discuss a concern. Every kid has something good about him/her. Find it. Share it. Then share your concern. Adhere strictly to this rule.
6. Your Language is Powerful
It communicates an awareness that there are many different kinds of families. Be careful not to assume a mother is, or isn’t married, or even that if she is married, she’s married to a man. Learn to ask open-ended questions and understand that sometimes parents/guardians might not want to share some information.
7. Ask Questions about the Child
“What kinds of things does he enjoy doing outside of school? Who are the special people in her life — family or family friends? What do you think are her best characteristics? What was he like as a little boy?” Demonstrate an interest in knowing your student.
8. Listen to Parents
Really listen. They know a whole lot about their kid.
9. Smile at the Child
When talking to a parent in front of a child, smile and make eye contact with the student to demonstrate that you care about him/her. Recognize what he/she has done well in your class in front of the parents. Then share a concern, if you have one.
10. Let Parents Know How They Can Help
Many want to help but especially as kids get older, parents aren’t asked for help as often and don’t know what to do. There’s always some way they can help in the classroom.
11. Invite Parents to Participate in Making Some Decisions
Invite their input, give them information that will help them form an opinion, and listen to their conclusions.
12. Share Every Success
Let parents know what their child is doing well, what academic skills, social skills or knowledge he’s mastered.
By: Asela P. Fernandez | Teacher II | Cabcaben Elementary School
