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September 27, 2016

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Home » Feature » Education

Sharing information central to promoting learning

ESTABLISHING a good relationship between teachers and parents is an essential step in ensuring that our children have a successful year of learning.

There are many different ways for teachers and parents to work together to pave the way for a great year ahead, but first and foremost is to create a robust line of communication. Without this, we are cheating our children and denying them an optimal year of learning.

In the international school environment, communication is not as easy as it sounds. In such a diverse community teaming with different languages and cultures, one cannot assume that all stakeholders are informed. As a veteran international elementary teacher, I am still learning how to fine tune my communication with parents especially considering the rapidly evolving technological society in which we live.

I do know that students whose parents are involved in school, who keep in touch with teachers and who are present for school events, tend to exude a self-confidence and positive attitude toward their education.

Strong school–home communication builds trust, consistency and lends itself to enabling our children to excel.

I would like to mention my top 10 things that I think some teachers may want from their students’ parents. I am sure the list could be written the other way as well, but for now, I will give you a teacher’s perspective.

Don’ts

•Assume that your child is telling all you need to know about school.

•Wait until reporting period to inquire about your child’s progress.

•Wait until the last minute to tell us that you are leaving for an unscheduled holiday or moving countries.

•Pass up a chance to attend a parent conference.

•Believe that teachers feel disrespected when you ask questions about your child.

Do’s

•Ask us how you can support your child’s learning at home.

•Check emails, the class website, newsletters, WeChat and offer feedback when possible.

•Turn to the teacher first when there are issues concerning your child.

•Keep us posted with changes at home that may affect your child’s learning at school.

•Remember that parents and teachers have the same goal in mind — a successful year for your child.




 

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