Parent-teacher communication is one of the key ingredients for student success. Without effectively communicating with parents, teachers run the risk of alienating parents from being fully involved in their children’s education.
Research has proven that parent-teacher communication plays a role in building a relationship between parents and teachers.
According to the Early the Learning Network, parents who build meaningful relationships with their children’s teachers see an improvement in their child’s behaviour and social-emotional well-being.
Building a relationship with parents begins with how teachers communicate with parents. We share some tips on how teachers can get better at communicating with parents.
Take the initiative to communicate with parents
From the first day of school, teachers should make an effort to get to know the parents of their students. Teachers can have a meet and greet session with parents. At these sessions, teachers and parents can get to know each other a little better.
Use the opportunity to find out more about the parent and student. It would also be worthwhile to find out how the parent wants you to communicate with them. If your school makes use of WhatsApp or emails, find out if this works for the parent.
Some parents might prefer SMS or a phone call, as a student might be living with a grandparent, therefore, might not have access to apps or email. Finding the best way to communicate will make everyone’s lives easier, as parents will receive communication from teachers promptly.
Be empathetic
When a parent comes to a teacher with concerns about their child, teachers must show understanding. By being understanding, you show parents that you care and value what they have to say. According to Walden University, teachers need to make parents feel valued if they want to improve their communication with parents. To build a relationship with parents, teachers need to create a safe space for parents to voice their concerns and share ideas.
Don’t only communicate when there’s an issue
Remember that the reason you have to communicate with parents is to build a relationship with them. Therefore, don’t communicate only when there’s an issue. Communicate about the student’s progress as well when they do well.
Don’t bombard parents with too much information
While it is essential to communicate with parents for relationship building, overdoing it can have the opposite effect. Sending too much information to parents can become overwhelming and lead to parents disengagement.
We can’t emphasise enough the importance and benefits of effective teacher-parent communication.
We hope these tips will help you communicate effectively with your student’s parents. If you’d like to know more about how you can become a teacher at SPARK Schools, click here.
