Many parents only ever meet up with their child’s teacher for a one-to-one catchup at the once-a-year parents’ evening events. This is only if work and other commitments don’t get in the way. A lack of communication between parents and teachers can become an even bigger issue in secondary school when children start to behave more independently. So it’s less likely you’ll even pay the school a visit very often. What’s more, secondary school students usually have a teacher for each subject; it would be difficult to keep in touch with all of them.
However, it’s absolutely crucial that parents and teachers keep in touch throughout the school year. An independent school in London have shed some more light on the matter below.
Work with the teachers
Teachers of teenagers, in particular, understand all too well how important it is to offer powerful leadership and a helping hand to their pupils in the most friendly and efficient way. This guidance must be unique to each student so that they are supported in a way that’s tailored to their needs. This helps them grow both academically and personally. If you’re a parent thinking of how you can work together with your child’s teacher in the best possible way, there’s no time like the present to get started. It would be worth visiting at the start of a new term just to introduce yourself to any new teachers.
However, for some teachers this might not be the most appropriate approach, as they’re busy and tend to have demanding schedules. If you think it might be unacceptable to pop in unannounced, it’s probably better to send an email introducing yourself and any concerns you may have. Let them know when you’re available to chat and see if they can arrange a face-to-face meeting. Regarding specialist teachers, since you won’t be able to keep in touch with every single one of them, it would be wise to contact the teachers of subjects your child is struggling with so that you can work towards the common goal of helping them improve. It is likely that the teacher will be thrilled to know they have your support.
Listen to the teachers
When you do finally find an opportunity to meet with any of your child’s teachers, be sure to listen attentively to what they have to say. Take some notes, if necessary. It’s important that you take on board any of their feedback and implement it as best you can. This can help your child improve in certain areas. If your child has exams coming up, it’s probably worth increasing the regularity of the communication with the school so that your child can reach their full potential. The teachers might be able to suggest some revision clubs they’re hosting after school or during lunch breaks. Or they might advise that you hire a private tutor to give your child that extra little push.
