Improving Parent-Teacher Communication
Effective Communication
Some parents/carers view schools and their handling of challenges in a positive light. However, others feel that they learn about issues too late, which makes it harder to support or intervene. Additionally, parents/carers may experience a complex range of emotions when discussing their children, so it's crucial for teachers to build trust and rapport to navigate this effectively.
Recommendation:
To improve parent-teacher communication: Prioritise regular updates, transparent discussion of challenges, and establish a collaborative partnership focused on the child's best interests.
Real World Examples:
The Department for Education (2017) highlights that parental involvement in schools enhance communication pathways, resulting in improved mental health and outcomes for pupils.
EASY
Mindful Moves:
Joining School Activities
GOAL: Greater involvement in the school environment, fostering a collaborative spirit and better understanding of their child's educational experience.
Actively engage in ongoing communication with teachers to stay informed about their child's educational progress and challenges, and work collaboratively with educators to address any issues promptly and effectively for the child's benefit.
Volunteer for school activities and events, such as field trips, classroom assistance, or school committees, to stay engaged and connected with the school community.
- Ask your child and/or your child's teacher about upcoming trips happening at school to participate in
- Check in with the School Newsletter and/or website for opportunities to participate in school activities
- Email your school Head Teacher and volunteer your time and experience towards the school
- Only do what you have time for, but do take an opportunity to look out for what you would enjoy participating in.
- Don’t forget to follow-up if you don’t hear anything back from the school
MEDIUM
Mindful Moves:
Virtual Parent Teacher meetings
GOAL: Enhanced communication and relationship-building between parents/carers and teachers, leading to a more collaborative approach to addressing student challenges.
Establish regular, transparent communication channels with parents/carers to keep them informed about their child's progress and challenges, fostering a trusting and collaborative relationship aimed at supporting the student's academic and personal growth.
Schedule virtual parent-teacher meetings every term, allowing for more frequent and flexible interactions between parents/carers and teachers. Here is an opportunity to share positive news about the young people too, not just challenges.
- Identify a few days every quarter where you are willing to meet parents/carers
- Share your availability with parents/carers offering remote options
- Hold 15-20 minute check-in sessions with parents/carers
- Ask parents/carers to give feedback on their sessions
Teachers already have limited time, it is possible for this to be arranged as a quarterly drop in session for parents/carers who might want to find out more about their children.
We encourage teachers to let parents/carers speak first in sessions so they might easily surface a concern or conversation topic of focus.
MEDIUM
Mindful Moves:
Creating Feedback Loops
GOAL: Parents/carers' voices are heard and considered in school decision-making processes, leading to improved communication practices and a more responsive school environment.
Actively engage in ongoing communication with teachers to stay informed about their child's educational progress and challenges, and work collaboratively with educators to address any issues promptly and effectively for the child's benefit.
Participate in school feedback mechanisms, such as surveys and meetings, to provide constructive feedback and suggestions for improving communication and support structures.
- Review your emails from the school for opportunities to give feedback through surveys or website links
- Reach out to your child's teacher and ask for a check-in
- Check-in with opportunities to be a school governors
Only do what you have time for, but do take an opportunity to look out for what you would enjoy participating in.