Developing Positive Parent Relationships
Scenario
Amy Part 3:
“Unbeknown to Amy, several parents had signed a letter of complaint stating concerns about her classroom management and that the children were not learning anything”
“Unbeknown to Amy, several parents had signed a letter of complaint stating concerns about her classroom management and that the children were not learning anything”
How To Build Parent Relationships
It is important for teachers to have the support of parents and caretakers in the classroom, to facilitate student learning in both home and school environments. Amy will need to address the complaint made, and aim to develop a positive and collaborative relationship with students’ families. Teachers can aim to develop parent relationships through parent meetings, justify teaching decisions, positive strategies for dealing with confrontations, and develop a communication system.
Parent Meetings
Teachers should aim to involve parents and caretakers, which will enable them to feel included in the decision making process for their child’s learning. It may be suitable to call in a parent meeting to discuss the learning goals and plans for students for the term or school year. Provide an opportunity for parent feedback, however preparing yourself for both the negative as well as positive comments.
Justify Teaching Decisions
It is vital, as the teacher, you are able to confidently justify the decisions your make in the classroom and for student learning. Through teacher confidence and knowledge of learning outcomes, parents and families will be encouraged and supportive of the decisions you make for their child’s learning.
Positive Strategies for Dealing with Confrontations
When confronted by a parent regarding an issue, positive strategies include:
- Stand at eye level with the parent
- Be respectful of their opinions, and ensure respect in return
- Remain and speak in a calm manner
- Listen carefully
- Do not interrupt the parent, but wait for your turn to speak.
- Do not make accusations or judge, instead identify an issue or situation
- If you feel that you are being verbally bullied state calmly that you will listen to what they have to say when they have calmed down and treat you with respect.
- Avoid anger, as it will only make situations worse
- Ensure that you speak to the Principal and an executive member to reflect, and have their support if the parent approaches them.
- Address the concerns the parent has and investigate the issue, and update them of the issue’s progress
- Provide parents with the opportunity to have an input in the problem solving process
- Ensure that you document events and issues. Note the date, time, who was present and as much detail about what was said as possible for future references (Inspiring Teachers Publishing 2011).
- Stand at eye level with the parent
- Be respectful of their opinions, and ensure respect in return
- Remain and speak in a calm manner
- Listen carefully
- Do not interrupt the parent, but wait for your turn to speak.
- Do not make accusations or judge, instead identify an issue or situation
- If you feel that you are being verbally bullied state calmly that you will listen to what they have to say when they have calmed down and treat you with respect.
- Avoid anger, as it will only make situations worse
- Ensure that you speak to the Principal and an executive member to reflect, and have their support if the parent approaches them.
- Address the concerns the parent has and investigate the issue, and update them of the issue’s progress
- Provide parents with the opportunity to have an input in the problem solving process
- Ensure that you document events and issues. Note the date, time, who was present and as much detail about what was said as possible for future references (Inspiring Teachers Publishing 2011).
Communication System
It is also recommended to facilitate a communication system with yourself and student families to relay information regarding student learning, wellbeing and upcoming school or classroom events. This is easily achieved through emailing, which is a fast and free mode of communication.
How does this relate to the National Professional Standards for Teachers?
Professional Engagement
PLAN FOR AND IMPLEMENT EFFECTIVE TEACHING AND LEARNING
Standard: 3
Focus: Engage parents/carers in the educative process
Graduate 3.7.1 Describe a broad range of strategies for involving parents/carers in the educative process
DEVELOPING POSITIVE PARENT RELATIONSHIPS
Standard: 7
Focus: Engage with the parents/carers
Graduate 7.3.1 Understand strategies for working effectively, sensitively and confidentially with parents/carers
Standard: 3
Focus: Engage parents/carers in the educative process
Graduate 3.7.1 Describe a broad range of strategies for involving parents/carers in the educative process
DEVELOPING POSITIVE PARENT RELATIONSHIPS
Standard: 7
Focus: Engage with the parents/carers
Graduate 7.3.1 Understand strategies for working effectively, sensitively and confidentially with parents/carers