How to Talk to Your Child's Teacher

At the end of last year, they had Teacher Appreciation Week. My Kindergartener, Raven, and I went to Staples and filled up on things on sale that she would use. Then we raided our home office to donate those things that we never used. I also watched the garage sales for things retired teachers themselves used. Then we took Computer wipes to the Computer Teacher, whistle necklaces to the gym teacher, clay to the Art teacher. It was a hit and it taught Raven the importance of showing someone your appreciation.

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I think it also helps to bring presents. :o) When my kids were elementary-age, I liked to give books for the classroom. Good picks for back-to-school time are Perfect Man by Troy Wilson (a book about a teacher/superhero), and the Miss Bingergarten series (from back to school to the 100th day to the last day of school).

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I have utilized email to keep communication going with my childrens teachers. The teachers check their emails regularly when their students are occupied... and they have the convenience of answering me at their convenience. I start out with supporting their efforts in the beginning, well, and throughout the semester. For example, I'll check to see that they received enough shoe boxes for the project they are doing, etc. Later, if I need to address something, I feel comfortable coming back and asking for help in understanding a situation. I will word it in a passive way, such as "Please let me know if my son an instigator in this sitiuation..." and I will research it from there. I find teachers are happy to 'help me' understand and don't feel accused when I need to ask them sensitive questions.

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I found this article helpful. I have a 13 yr old that has some challenging behaviors and has an IEP.

I am my child's ADVOCATE and I haven't ever taken SIDES; although, I have been able to see it from both perspectives. I have asked, discussed and partnered with each teacher my son has had.

This is always the best way to communicate with teacher's beginning from DAY 1. You will find that when you humble yourself to new ideas that don't hurt your child -- your child will sense that and will thrive on success.

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These suggestions work well into upper grades, as well. Letting your teacher(s) know that you are on their side (and visa, versa) helps to keep the lines of communication open. The best advice I ever received was from one of my oldest daughters' preschool teacher. "Feel free to express any concerns you have about your child and we'll believe half of what your child tells us about you."

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