What are some questions you could ask your child’s teacher? What else should you watch out for?
The family and the school share the same purpose: to help children learn and experience success. Research has shown that when parents and teachers collaborate, everyone benefits. Establishing a relationship of trust between teachers and parents requires continuous effort from both sides.
At times, as a parent, you may need to address any potential negative attitudes towards schools and teachers. For instance, if you faced challenges as a student, it’s likely you’ll need to manage negative emotions stemming from your childhood.
Here are some advises for your first meeting with the teacher:
1. A prepared list of questions addressing your concerns for the teacher will be useful.
For example:
• “How is he/ she performing in the school subjects and tests?”
• “Is he/she meeting the expected level of learning and behavior for his/her age?”
• “Does he/she follow the classroom rules?”
• “Is he/she attentive during class?”
• “If my child is struggling, for instance in math, how can I help him/her enhance his/her performance in that area?”
• “Which are his/her strengths?”
• “Are there any health or adjustment concerns?”
• “Could you recommend any learning activities or resources?”
• “How is he/ she interacting with his/her classmates?”
2. You should be familiar with the homework the teacher assigns and how your child is performing in them. Does he/she complete his/her assignments? Does he/she understand them? Do they appear easy or challenging to him/her?
3. If the teacher indicates that your child is experiencing learning difficulties, consider requesting in the school’s special unit, if available.
4. Be open to cooperation. It’s possible that the teachers share challenging news regarding your child’s academic performance or behavior, because they intend to help him/her in this area. However, sometimes the communication may not be delivered in the most effective manner, leading parents to become defensive or upset. Always assume that the teacher has a sincere interest in your child and respond calmly. Express that your primary concern is your child’s success. Offer to discuss the issue and collaborate on finding potential solutions. Remember that teachers may feel just as uneasy delivering unfavorable news about your child as you may feel hearing it.
