[how to interact with your child's school]
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Once your child starts kindergarten they spend approximately 30 hours a week in school. It’s possible that they spend more time with their teacher than they do their parents. School is an important part of your child’s life. Because of this, it is imperative that you have a good relationship with the institution that becomes your child’s second home.
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Here are some tips to consider when interacting with the teachers and faculty at your child’s school.
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Check it outbreak
Before your child starts school it is important to attend any open houses or orientations the school offers for prospective students. Schedule a meeting to meet the principal and tour the school to familiarize yourself with the campus and to get a feel for the atmosphere. First impressions mean a lot.
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Be involved
Once your child starts school, be involved. Attend PTA meetings, join committees, volunteer in your child’s classroom or media center. If your work hours interfere, offer to help the teacher by taking things home that can assist him or her such as assembling writing journals or books or cutting out laminated items.
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Familiarize yourself with the policies and procedures of the school
Read any literature the school offers such as their handbook. Check out their website.
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Communication is k
The best way to know how your child is doing is to have an open line of communication with your child’s teacher. Find out the best way to get your questions answered or to get a message to the teacher. Do they prefer email, a phone call or note? Asking lengthy questions when you drop your child off at the door in the morning or at the car line in the afternoon is ineffective. The teacher is busy supervising the children and is not prepared to answer your questions thoughtfully at that time. When you need to talk, schedule a conference. You can request a conference any time, not just on the scheduled conference nights.
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Be prepared
Have your questions ready when meeting with the teacher. If your child comes home with a story that upsets you, ask to meet with the teacher. Do not attend the meeting with an attacking or accusatory tone. Instead, calmly explain what you heard. Give the teacher a chance to explain their side of the story. More often than not, there is more to the story than you were aware of. Sometimes the child’s perception was incorrect. Go to the teacher first to resolve your issues or concerns. If you are unhappy with their response, seek help from the school administration.
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Be respectful
Be on time for your appointment with the teacher or call ahead of time if you are running late. Remember that the teacher is a professional. Never let your child hear you talk negatively about their teacher. You may disagree with him or her, but you must set a good example so that your child continues to show the teacher the respect they deserve.
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Remember that you are in this together. The parent/school relationship is a partnership. The primary goal for both of you is to make school a positive experience for your child.
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Contributing writer Lia Robinson was a school teacher in Hillsborough County before eventually becoming Assistant Principal at a South Tampa public school. Now as a stay-at-home mom to Parker, two, and a parent interacting with her own son’s preschool, she offers some tips to our readers in fostering a healthy relationship with your child’s school.