Sharing Information with Families

Remember that the majority of parents are NOT educators. They rely on teachers to inform them on how their child is doing.  Parents’ method for helping their child is doing it “the way they were taught.” How many times have you heard a parent say “School has changed so much since I was in there. I don’t how to do this new stuff”? One way to ward off these types of questions and comments is to keep the parents informed all along the way.

• When parents come to you with a concern, take their concern seriously. No matter how simple the question seems to you, it is huge to the parent!! Parents want to know that they are being heard. Rephrase their question to make sure that you understood the parent correctly. This gives the parents a chance to clarify the question if you misunderstood but also lets them know that you are listening to them and addressing their concern.                                                                            
• Whatever you agree to do for the student, make sure you follow through!! The parents will be watching and waiting for you to follow through with your promise.

• When speaking to the parent, don’t talk above their head. Speak in terms that they can understand and not feel intimidated. This will help keep a positive open line of communication. If you use acronyms, explain what they mean. Before you end your conversation, ask parents if they have any questions.

• “Don’t overwhelm the parents with too much information. Give them something to walk away with, and then offer a follow-up appointment.” I know that there are times where we feel like we will never get the parent back in but remember that parents do not want to come in and hear everything that their child is doing wrong or not doing at all. Make sure to include what the students can do so that the parent will leave on a positive note. This will help the parent feel better about coming to another meeting to discuss their child.

• Ever dealt with an angry parent? We all have. Remember that the anger that may be directed towards you most of the time is not truly meant for you. When the parents are angry, they are usually just very frustrated with their child. When dealing with an upset parent, “it’s best to keep listening, paraphrase, and let the parent talk out the issue until you are sure you understand. You may need to involve another professional, such as the principal or reading specialist, to help you talk through and solve the problem.”

• Have you ever had a parent catch you in the hallway or even in a store? If so, acknowledge the parent’s question and respond with “I’m so glad you brought this up. Let’s set up a meeting so we can discuss this in more detail.”