Teachers are responsible for the most powerful messages and crucial information communicated to parents. This
communication is important to the lives of children and contributes toward their school successes and failures. That
is why communication with the parents of our students is vital. Here are seven important things to keep in mind as
we communicate with parents.
- Communicate early and often. Research shows that trust is closely tied to both familiarity and dependability. Frequent communication with parents assures them of your interest in and commitment to their child.
- Position ourselves as an advocate for students and a partner with parents. This will clarify your intent in communicating with parents and establishes a purpose for communication. This should be the framework of teacher-to-parent communication.
- Ground teacher communication in what we will promise parents. At the beginning of the year, let parents know the conditions under which they can expect to hear from us. Let them know how and when they can contact us as teachers.
- Avoiding giving parents surprises, especially negative ones. In many cases, anticipating potential problems and alerting parents can prevent problems from gaining life.
- Be open to what parents have to say, even if it is difficult to hear. We must understand that parents have experiences and insights regarding their children that we will never have. When parents are willing and able to share their perspectives with us, we can become more influential and effective in working with their children—and with them.
- Recognize that words alone are a small part of communication with parents. Non-verbal communication can speak louder than words. Pay special attention to choice of words, tone of voice and sensitivity to the perceptions of our audience.
- Remember that in communication, doing nothing is always doing something. Our silence is likely to be read as a message. Parents may think that not hearing from us means everything is fine. It may also be interpreted as lack of caring, an absence of commitment or an indication that communication with parents is a low priority.
Good communication with parents represents one of the best investments of time and energy we can make. It is vital
to know what to share, how to share it and by what means through which to share it. Remember: It is impossible to
share the responsibility of a child’s welfare without communicating with the parents.
From “The Master Teacher” Volume 35, Number 3