This is a paid collaboration.
It’s quite surprising to learn just how many parents do not meet regularly with their child’s teacher.
Some only meet their child’s teacher at the once-a-year parent-teacher meeting. This can become even more of an issue in secondary school because children become more independent and naturally, they have more than one teacher, which can be tricky to stay on top of. So how on earth are you meant to build a relationship with all of them?
Teachers of secondary aged children understand all too well how vital it is to offer a guiding hand to their pupils in the most friendly and effective way. Personalised guidance is important for children when it comes to achieving excellence academically and personally. If you’re a parent wondering how best to work together with your child’s teacher, start immediately. Visit once at the start of a new term just to introduce yourself.
For some teachers this might not be the best way forward…they’re busy people with stressful schedules so if you feel this might be too much to pop in unannounced, send an introductory email just to say who you are and let them know that you’re always available to discuss any issues about your child during the coming weeks. With regards to specialist teachers, whilst you may not be able to contact them all, a good approach is to establish a relationship with the teachers of the subjects your child struggles with and the teachers of the subjects your child excels at. Let them know you are always interested to learn more about how you can be of support.
Hearing your child’s teachers
If your child’s teacher does happen to get in touch with you, ensure that you take notes and implement anything they suggest to help improve your child’s performance. Teachers want their pupils to do well, so knowing you’re on their side is always helpful.
For older children who might soon have exams, it’s very important that parents and teachers communicate often. If your child needs assistance with a subject, then help the teacher in their efforts to provide this or if needed, hire a tutor. A good teacher should be able to recommend some to you. Teachers can always offer you excellent resources to help your child study more effectively.
Act as intermediary
You are what your child and their teacher have in common; you are the link between home and school so it’s important for you to listen to both parties. If your child has issues with their teacher, listen to them. Take their concerns seriously but discuss them with the teacher and hear their side of things. Carefully explain what your child is struggling with; a good teacher will hear you and understand that you want the best outcome for your child.
Similarly, if your child’s teacher has concerns about your child’s effort or in class, listen carefully and pass this on to your child in a way which will help your child to understand what to change in order to do better. This junior school in the Cotswolds believes in a bespoke approach to nurturing each child so that the individuals strengths are celebrated and encouraged.
Above all, remember that your child’s teacher is there to assist your child in getting ahead. They’re there to teach, inspire and look out for your child’s academic and your child’s personal development – just like you!
