The two essential pillars for progressive education in a child’s life are parents and teachers. Without their combined interest and effective communication, a child cannot achieve much. For teachers, it is important to strike a dialogue with parents to keep them abreast of their child’s progress that includes reporting on academic performance, cognitive and personality skill development. For parents, it is equally important to trust the teachers and give them enough space and authority to guide the child in the right direction. There are no set rules to achieve the ultimate cordial milestone for parent-teachers; what matters most in the effort and the awareness of how their coordinated guidance can enhance the child’s growth.

Building a Strong Parent-Teacher Relationship – Do’s & Don’ts

Suggestions To Try:

For Teachers

• Accentuate the significance of a parent’s role in their child’s education. Parents want to feel appreciated and seek the best for their children. By explaining how crucial home-school communications are to a child’s education, you can effectively gain the parents’ support.
• When providing parents with specific learning goals, explain to them what you saw during class that needs exploration.  You can also illustrate to them the extent to which they are learning from the class by showing them examples of work well-done.

For Parents

• Set the tone for a positive relationship by notifying the teacher how delighted you are that your child is in their class. Also, communicate your objectives with your child. They will value your consideration.
• When providing parents with specific learning goals, explain to them what you saw during class that needs exploration.  You can also illustrate to them the extent to which they are learning from the class by showing them examples of work well-done.

What To Avoid:

For Teachers

• Don’t weigh down the parents with several home based activities. Opt for simple and practical approaches for parents to promote learning at home. Be thorough and provide them with the resources they will require to facilitate their child.
• Don’t disregard parental responses. Regardless of whether they are useful or irrelevant, always take their opinions into consideration. It will help in enhancing the learning experience of the child.

For Parents

• Do not impose your expectations on the teachers. For example, if your child received the highest scores in science, they should focus more on other subjects. Allow the teacher to evaluate your child’s performance.
• Communication shouldn’t be restricted to one or two mediums. Every school or institute of education has its own protocols to share information about its students. Calls, emails, newsletters, and in-person meetings are some common examples. Discuss with teachers or schools in advance regarding your preference.

Keeping transparent communication between teachers and parents is essential to providing students with the best education possible. Each child is unique so remember to keep an adaptive approach to ensure that their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs are met through a holistic learning environment.