Parent-Teacher Communication
How to Communicate With Teachers During Preschool Conferences
Parent-teacher conferences build and improve parent-teacher relationships in the preschool setting
The goal of parent-teacher conferences in the preschool setting is to help parents, teacher and the child become more involved in the educational process.
“Educators need to keep parents informed and involved every step of the way. Parents need to share their child’s abilities and limitation with educators as well. And most of all, children need to be involved and motivated in the process as well,” explains Stacey Kannenberg, co-author of Let's Get Ready for Kindergarten!
Parent-Teacher Communication
Communication is the primary ingredient in building a good parent-teacher relationship. Kannenberg suggests asking questions at parent-teacher conferences in order to get everyone involved. Parents should ask teachers what they can do and how they can help with the educational process.
In addition, parents should ask teachers if they need help at school such as volunteering in the classroom or if there is something they should be working on at home. In short, the parent should find out what is the best way to support the teacher.
Listening is a key component to communication during parent-teacher conferences. Parents should listen carefully and appreciate what is being said during conferences and remain objective about what they learn. “Judgment is not being made about your child. Teachers only wish to help and encourage. Parents should not be defensive and should always be honest,” says renowned parenting expert Lonna Corder.
Parents should ask how the teacher prefers to communicate. Certified parent coach Tammy Gold suggests parents ask such questions as “What is the best way to find out how my child is doing in school?” or “Is it ok to call or email you?". “These questions will engender more conversation about the best ways to keep in contact and to support the child,” says Gold.
Parents, Teachers, and Mutual Respect
Respect is also another important component to parent-teacher communication, especially during conferences. Teachers and parents need to respect each other and work together cooperatively. The key is to get on the same page with respect to the child’s development. For example, Gold suggests that if the parent has certain views on discipline or how to handle the child during times of stress they can voice them, but they should also find out how the program handles discipline and respect the teacher’s views.
While parent teacher conferences are an important tool in relationship building between parents and teachers, Kannenberg stresses that there should never be any surprises in a parent teacher conference setting. If a child is having issues in school, that information should be immediately conveyed to the parents. Teachers should not wait for conferences to discuss.
In summary, the parent-teacher relationship should be both respectful and enjoyable. Parents should try not to get defensive. Attempt to find positives to offset any off-putting information received during parent-teacher conferences. Most importantly, remember that a good relationship with your child’s teacher is key to helping your child succeed.
