This is a collaborative post.
Once your child start schools, it is likely that their teachers will start to have as much influence over them as you do. With that in mind, it’s important that you build a strong relationship with your child’s teacher so that you can work in unison to make the most of their education and ensure they are happy in general. You may be unsure how to build a relationship with your child’s teacher, which is why I have teamed up with a prep school in London to offer some advice.
Good communication between yourself and your child’s school is vital to their academic success. If you fail to inform your son or daughter’s teacher about big changes at home, they will fail to deal with the situation. For instance, perhaps you are moving house and your child cannot find some of their books because they have been packed away. The teacher will likely jump to conclusions and discipline your child for not having the correct books if they are unaware of the move. Likewise, the school will need to inform parents of big changes. Essentially, the more information that goes back and forth between teachers and parents, the more the child in question will benefit.
Speaking with the teachers will help parents understand if and how their child is progressing. If your child’s teacher informs you that they are doing well in Science but they are below average in Maths, then you will know to focus your attention on Maths related activities whilst at home, rather than Science. You could even hire a private tutor to help with the subject areas that need extra support. Parents’ Evening is a great opportunity to learn this type of information, but it wouldn’t hurt to book in some additional meetings throughout the year, or even discuss via written communication.
You could also ask the teacher for an outline of your child’s curriculum for the year. In understanding what your child is learning about at school, you can ask them more appropriate questions about their lessons at the end of each day. What’s more, you can also explore the relevant subject areas after school and on weekends.
There may be times when you disagree with things that your child’s teachers are saying, but it’s important that you work with them rather than against them at all times. A simple “thank you” and some praise from time to time will really go a long way in giving the teacher the appreciation and confidence they need to continue providing your child and their peers with the best possible education.