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Tips for Enhancing Communication with Schools

By Karol Green, Hospital Teacher

Communication is the key to developing good relationships in your child’s school. Parents want their children to be successful and to feel welcomed in school. Research shows that students have success when parents join in with teachers to make education a family commitment. Open communication involves an ongoing exchange of information between parents and school personnel; it is a collaborative effort to keep everyone involved in creating the best learning environment for their children.

Good communication between parents and teachers is important in creating positive relationships in schools. Teachers often sponsor an open house at the beginning of the school year to encourage parents to share goals for their children and to discuss the best ways to communicate (notes, telephone, e-mails) with them on a regular basis throughout the year.

Computers are an excellent tool for keeping the lines of communication flowing between the home and school. Computers provide access to information on a child’s assignments, reports and what’s happening at school.  Many schools make teacher and school e-mail addresses available to parents. Some schools have informational websites that have the ability to post assignments from teachers as well as keep records of attendance and student reports online for parents. Parents can effectively communicate with their children’s teachers throughout the school year because the internet is available 24/7.

There are many ways parents can encourage open communication with children’s schools. A few suggestions for developing and improving the quality of communication are:

    • Develop relationships with teachers and other school personnel at the beginning of the year. Let teachers know how to reach you and how you prefer to be contacted.  If you are unable to attend school opening activities, this information can be sent to teachers via written notes, e-mail or telephone.

    • Talk with your child about his or her friends, activities, teachers and assignments. Talking with children creates opportunities to show support for your child and gives you some insight into what is happening in the schools.

    • Join your PTA and partner with other parents in the school.

    • Stay informed of school events, homework and class projects. Parents who are involved in activities demonstrate that they believe education is important.

    • Don’t be afraid to inform teachers of any unusual circumstances that might affect your child’s behavior (family illness, new baby, divorce, loss of a pet, etc.).

    • Find out how the internet can be used to enhance your child’s school work by corresponding with their teachers. Be sure to always practice safe internet use by keeping abreast of what your child is viewing.

Research acknowledges that when parents communicate and are active in their children’s schools, the students are more likely to be well-rounded individuals. Students with parents who are supportive and involved tend to attain higher grades, perform better on tests, have good attendance, maintain higher self-esteem, demonstrate fewer behavior problems, and become more active citizens in their communities. Open communication and collaboration between parents and schools create strong foundations for our children. It is important for parents to demonstrate to their children that they believe education is important through their interactions with the schools. Parents are the first teachers; they are the models and advocates for children throughout their lives.

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The information on this site is provided for informational and educational purposes only; it does not contain specific medical advice. If you have specific health questions or problems, consult a health care professional for personal medical advice.