Helpful Hints
10 Ways to Communicate With Teachers
1.) Pick up the phone for occasional 5-10 minute "catch-up" between formal parent-teacher
conferences.
2.) Make an appointment and have specific questions prepared to discuss with teachers and
administrators.
3.) Share your wishes and worries about your child so you and the teacher can compare observations,
and set goals and expectations together.
4.) Ask for advice about your child's behavior problems, homework difficulties, and how to reinforce at
home what's learned at school.
5.) Respond to report cards by sending the teacher a note if you're pleased with your child's progress or
by asking what you can do to help your child improve if the grade or comments are disappointing
to you.
6.) Get with the program by attending school conferences, as well as other meetings and programs that
allow you to make contact with your child's teacher and other school staff.
7.) Find out what your child is learning, and what the academic expectations are for the year.
8.) Seek a translator if language differences are preventing good communication between you and a
teacher.
9.) Provide the information to the teachers about major changes in home circumstances that may affect
your child's behavior or performance.
10.) When you are confused, don't hesitate to call and ask. You are your child's only advocate!
