5 Tips to work positively with your child's teacher

1. Establish Trust

• You know your child best, but remember that your child's teacher has more experience with children at this particular age level and has seen it ALL! Teachers don't get into their career for the money, so trust that they know what they are talking about and are on your team. All (good) teachers have your child's best interest at heart and want to see every student succeed!

2. Have an open line of communication

• The best way to help your child succeed at school is to communicate with your child's teacher. Be open to emails, phone calls and in person check ins so that you know what is going on with your child and are there to support whatever their needs are.

3. Listen

• Hearing the good stuff about your child is easy, hearing the not so good stuff, is hard. Remember that no student is "perfect" and every child has their strengths AND stuff they need to work on. Don't panic if your child is struggling in one or more areas, but listen to your child's teacher and figure out how you can work as a TEAM to support your child.

4. Volunteer

• The best way to get a pulse on what is going on at school and in your child's classroom is to volunteer (work permitting). You get a unique perspective into your child's world and it shows both your child and their teacher that you care about their education and school experience. But PLEASE don't be one of those parents who either only helps your child, or just chats with other parent volunteers, or you won't be asked back :)

5. Ask Questions

• Be open to learning how you can support your child both at school and at home. Teachers are usually happy to share tips, resources, and advice if you are open to it!

• Questions you can ask:

  • Do you have book suggestions for my child at their reading level?

  • Who does my child play with at school? And plan play dates with those kids!

  • Educational iPad apps to give them positive screen time?