How do you build strong relationships with parents year-round?

1 Establish clear expectations

One of the first steps to building strong relationships with parents is to establish clear expectations and boundaries from the start. This means communicating your goals, policies, procedures, and routines for the classroom and the school. You can use various channels, such as newsletters, websites, syllabi, or orientation sessions, to share this information with parents and invite their feedback and questions. You can also explain how and when you prefer to communicate with parents, and what kind of issues or concerns they should bring to your attention.

2 Show appreciation and recognition

Another way to strengthen your relationships with parents is to show appreciation and recognition for their involvement and support. You can do this by sending positive notes, emails, or messages to parents, highlighting their child's achievements, strengths, or improvements. You can also acknowledge and thank parents for their contributions, such as volunteering, donating, or helping with homework. Showing appreciation and recognition can make parents feel valued and respected, and encourage them to stay engaged and connected.

3 Share resources and tips

Sharing resources and tips with parents can also help you build strong relationships with them. You can provide parents with useful and relevant information, such as learning materials, websites, apps, books, or activities, that can support their child's learning at home. You can also offer tips and suggestions on how to help their child with academic, social, or emotional challenges, such as studying, time management, peer pressure, or anxiety. Sharing resources and tips can show parents that you care about their child's success and well-being, and that you are willing to collaborate and assist them.

4 Seek feedback and input

Seeking feedback and input from parents can also enhance your relationships with them. You can ask parents for their opinions, perspectives, or suggestions on various aspects of your teaching, such as curriculum, instruction, assessment, or classroom environment. You can also invite parents to share their insights, experiences, or expectations regarding their child's learning, interests, needs, or goals. Seeking feedback and input can show parents that you respect and value their voice and expertise, and that you are open to learning and improving.

5 Address issues and concerns promptly

Addressing issues and concerns promptly is another key to building strong relationships with parents. You can do this by responding to parents' emails, calls, or messages in a timely and professional manner. You can also initiate contact with parents if you notice any problems or difficulties with their child, such as academic performance, behavior, or attendance. Addressing issues and concerns promptly can show parents that you are proactive and responsible, and that you are committed to finding solutions and resolving conflicts.

6 Celebrate and showcase success

Finally, celebrating and showcasing success is a great way to build strong relationships with parents. You can do this by inviting parents to attend or participate in events, such as assemblies, performances, exhibitions, or conferences, where their child's work or achievements are displayed or recognized. You can also share photos, videos, or portfolios of their child's projects, activities, or accomplishments with parents. Celebrating and showcasing success can show parents that you are proud and supportive of their child, and that you want to share their joy and excitement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?