At the beginning of the school year, inform parents about how and when you will communicate with them. Explain the purpose and format of different types of communication, such as newsletters, emails, phone calls, conferences, and reports. Provide a schedule of regular communication and let parents know how they can reach you if they have questions or concerns. Establishing clear expectations can help prevent misunderstandings and build trust between you and parents.
Depending on the purpose and urgency of your communication, you may need to choose different channels to reach parents. For example, if you need to share important information or updates quickly, you may use text messages, phone calls, or emails. If you want to provide more detailed feedback or discuss sensitive issues, you may prefer face-to-face meetings or video calls. If you want to showcase student work or celebrate achievements, you may use newsletters, websites, or social media. Choose the channel that best suits your message and your audience.
When communicating with parents, avoid sending long or vague messages that may confuse or bore them. Instead, be concise and specific about what you want to say. Use clear and simple language and avoid jargon or acronyms. Highlight the main points and provide relevant examples or evidence. Include a clear call to action or a question if you want a response from parents. Keep your communication focused and relevant to the topic and the parent's interest.
Communication is a two-way process, so don't forget to seek feedback and input from parents. Ask them how they prefer to communicate with you and how often. Ask them what they want to know more about their child's learning and well-being. Ask them how they are supporting their child at home and what challenges they are facing. Listen to their perspectives and concerns and acknowledge their contributions. Involve them in decision-making and problem-solving when appropriate. Seeking feedback and input can help you improve your communication and build a positive relationship with parents.
While communication is important, it is also important to respect boundaries and privacy between you and parents. Don't communicate with parents too frequently or at inappropriate times, such as late at night or on weekends. Don't share personal or confidential information about other students, staff, or families. Don't make assumptions or judgments about parents' situations or choices. Don't engage in conflicts or arguments with parents online or in public. Respect boundaries and privacy can help you maintain a professional and respectful communication with parents.