Strong relationships between home and school are built on effective communication. Maintaining open and honest communication with the school staff allows for sharing of successes and problem solving when issues arise. Frequent communications between home and school supports a collaborative approach and builds student success. The following tips will help build strong positive relationships with the school staff.
- Remember that all parties share one common goal: To help your child.
- When speaking to your child, or in front of your child, about the school and its staff, be positive.
- Build a personal relationship with the teacher – attend school plays, barbeques, sports events or open houses.
- Talk regularly to the teachers about your child’s school activities.
- Ask what you can do at home to help your child.
- Share information about your child’s interests, attitude towards school, likes and dislikes, talents, etc.
- Help the teacher to understand how your child learns.
- Make appointment’s to discuss your child’s progress, any difficulties at school, and learn about how your child is developing socially and emotionally.
- Clear up misunderstandings and prevent problems from escalating.
- Learn about how your child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) is being implemented.
- Work with the teacher to review the IEP and develop plans together.
- Your interest and involvement shows that school is important.
Interdependence is the paradigm of we. We can do it, we can cooperate, we can combine our talents and abilities and create something greater together.