How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Connect with their parents

Disciplines > Teaching > Classroom management > Connect with their parents

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Connect with their parents before there's trouble. Call or write just to introduce yourself. Say you just want to say hello and that they can contact you at any time.

Then when you really need to talk with them, they will know who you are and will be more ready to listen.

Note that you do not have to do this to all parents. An early scan and talking with other teachers will soon let you identify the potential trouble-makers. Do not mention this to the parents, of course. Just say you are calling all parents.

Example

Hello Mrs Wakovski, I'm Jason's History teacher this year and I'm calling parents to introduce myself and let you know that if you ever want to speak to me or call into school to see what we are doing, then you are very welcome.

Discussion

Calling parents when there is a problem can be a problem in itself. They do not know you and may have already formed an opinion based on what their child has said about you. It is also tricky calling to tell them that their child has done something wrong as they may decide to defend the child against this unknown assailant.

On the other hand, calling when there is no problem may be a nice surprise when they are used to calls only when there is trouble. This also helps to create a bond with them such that they feel you are on their side -- as a result when you need them to be on your side, they are much more likely to support you.