Easy ways to master modern parent-teacher communication in a digital world
What's the best way to communicate with your child's teacher?
It depends on the teacher.
We asked current and former teachers to tell us the best ways parents can communicate with them.
Find the teacher's preferred method of communication
Many teachers prefer email. "This way I can communicate with them during school hours, and I know I will not miss a message from them," one teacher said. Some prefer email because they can create a better work-life balance by choosing how and when to check their email.
TalkingPoints
This app is used by many schools for regular communication. Some teachers love it and communicate through it often. Other teachers don't check it as often and mainly use it for last-minute messages.
Be sure to ask your teacher what he or she prefers.
Call or text
My son has one teacher who prefers we text her when we have a question or something we want to know. She is very responsive and since she is always on the move, it is helpful for her to get a text so she can respond while she walks to her other classes.
Ask your teacher
Ashley Morris, a professional math tutor for more than 20 years and former teacher for about a decade, suggests making the first move and asking your child's teacher what they prefer. "For example, if they often message you through a parent portal, start there. Then after you’ve made initial contact or raised an issue with them (or vice versa) you can elevate the conversation to a communication method that you’re more comfortable with," Morris suggests.
Once you have an open dialogue with the teacher, what is the best way to establish a good relationship with them?
Ask how you can help
Mother-of-two Elizabeth Manning grew up among a family of educators. She suggests asking if you can volunteer in the classroom or even inquire about ways to work with your child to build more trust or comfort with the teacher.
Be specific about communication needs
Manning and other parents suggested being specific about what communication you need. Let them know when you'd like to be notified about something happening with your child. Setting specific communication needs will foster a transparent environment.
Acknowledge your child’s quirks
Every child has quirks. Acknowledge your child's special traits and do not be afraid to address them during a conversation with the teacher, Manning suggests. If you bring them up to the teacher, it will let them know that you aren't blind to your child's sometimes challenging behavior.
Share positive feedback
If your child has something they enjoy in class each day, Morris suggests sharing it with the teacher.
"Keeping a positive relation with the teacher and towards the classroom is important. It can be challenging," Morris said. "Whenever possible, do your best to focus on the positive aspects of the class, the teacher and the experience. This can be challenging especially when there is a feeling that the teacher is the problem, or that they are creating an issue. However, keep in mind that by keeping things professional and on a positive footing, everyone is going to function better."
Keep communicating
Communication is key no matter what platform your child's teacher prefers. Keep the channels of communication open and know that it is OK to reach out to teachers if you have questions.
