What are some strategies for novice teachers working with parents and families?

Opening channels of communication right from the start with all families is so important. I never wanted the first contact with a family to be difficult news. To avoid this I used the first few weeks to send positive news from the classroom, collective and individual. I also sent families copies of the classroom agreements that the students and I created, with suggestions about how they could support these. When I had to speak with parents about their child’s behavior, I always approached it as a partner seeking agreements about what each of us would do to support their child. And I checked in.

I strongly believe that there is an absolute need for a two-way communication between the Teacher and the Parents. There are many ways in which this communication can take place viz Parent-Teacher meetings, weekly or bimonthly status of the student's? performance sent to them, phone calls and messages, personalized emails, online meet-ups etc. The focus of the communication should mainly revolve around the student's day to day classroom activities, accomplishments and how can that be bettered with the parents' active involvement.

I agree that knowing your context is super important. However my advice is specifically for anyone who was diagnosed with aspergers decades ago that wants to be a teacher now. The best way for us to learn to communicate with staff and parents is to hire a communication coach. I have already done this and it has helped me tremendously and I have had this diagnosis since 1997.

Teach childrens moral values in this way childrens will not only learn values but you will also build a good rapport in front of their parents.

Although “official” parent-teacher conferences weren’t held until the end of the first grading period, I always offered informal parent conferences at the beginning of the year. Students were included, and the format was flexible. Sometimes it was a meet and greet time, sometimes we set goals together, and sometimes we started the process for getting extra help right away. Usually I did a lot of listening and found that this really helped both my students and their parents feel seen and understood.

To foster collaboartion you can also schedule informal meetings which will build your relationship stronger not just with childrens but also to their parents.

Children often learn by observing their parents, teachers, and other significant adults in their lives. Be a role model by demonstrating honesty, kindness, empathy, and respect in your actions and words.

I agree, however schools often do not have time built in that is necessary for this type of individualized and thoughtful feedback and communication. Many teachers are often required to write curriculum/lesson plan, manage a classroom, provide thoughtful scaffolding and differentiation, and grade based upon well thought out rubrics. In my experience, one planning period (if provided) is not enough time to provide the kind of feedback that all parents and students need and deserve. With current shortages, demands are even higher. How can schools begin prioritizing time for parental and students feedback that is consistent, meaningful and thorough? It is essential.