Parents are the first teachers of their children. But as kids grow, parents need to entrust their kids to school teachers who are responsible for providing knowledge and developing the basic skills of children. Teachers are, therefore, recognized as second parents. And for this reason, parents and teachers need to establish a positive relationship as partners in education.
Experts have pointed out that a positive relationship between a parent and teacher is more likely to lead to the success of a child in school. When a school kid sees that his mom or dad get along well with the teacher, he or she is bound to feel good and inspired to do good in school.
But this is not always the case because of the challenges that may come along. There are times you may not like your child’s teacher or your child does not like his or her teacher. Or there may also be times when you don’t agree with the disciplinary actions carried out by the teacher towards your kid.
How then can you develop a good relationship with a teacher even if sometimes you may not always approve of him or her?
Communication
Establish an open communication line. A two-way communication between a parent and a teacher is very important. Keep in mind that as a parent, you will need information about the learning progress of your kid in school. At the same time, the teacher will need feedback from parents on how their child is faring academically and socially. Hence when you are able to share information with each other on a regular basis, you are on the right track in helping your child succeed.
If certain issues exist in the home such as you’re facing a rocky marriage, it would help to let the teacher know about the situation as well. A teacher can play a significant role in helping your child focus on his studies without being distracted by your personal issues. You may need to consult with a divorce lawyer yourself in the event you and your spouse are opting to end your marriage.
Respect
Respect each other. In any relationship, there has to be respect. When you know how to give this, you will earn it back.
In a parent-teacher relationship, make it what they call a problem-solving partnership. What this means is you and the teacher find ways to solve an issue instead of you confronting the teacher whenever you find out something’s wrong. Sit down together and work out the ways to help the child in areas where he or she is facing a problem.
Independence
Allow your child to develop his own relationship with the teacher. Guidance counselors recommend that parents let their child develop a relationship with his or her teacher at his own terms. When this is done, it is possible for the child to develop a special relationship with the teacher based on love.
Remember that a child-teacher relationship can be the first adult bond your child will have outside of the home. And when this is based on love, it will be something they will cherish and one which can even last for a lifetime.
Humility
Be humble. You may be proud of your child’s progress and intelligence but if possible, try not to brag about this to the teacher. You can send a wrong signal to the teacher if you always report about what a whiz your kid is. Parents need not promote their achiever kids because the teacher will know it herself.
Originally posted on January 19, 2015 @ 10:26 am
