6 Ways to Be Considerate of the Teacher's Time

Know when, why, and how to call, email, visit, and write to your child's teacher.

Ages

5-7

6 Ways to Be Considerate of the Teacher's Time

Fostering a relationship with your child's teacher is an important part of the home-school connection, but keep in mind that teachers live busy lives and often find their time stretched thin. Help them out by following these ideas:

  1. Make an appointment to talk. If you have something you want to discuss, don't try to corner the teacher before or after school in the hall. Set up a meeting and let her know what the issue is in advance.
  2. Don't interrupt teaching time. Unless it's an emergency, don't call to chat with the teacher when class is in session.
  3. For less urgent matters, send a note or e-mail. If you want to update the teacher on a family matter or ask a specific question about schoolwork, writing an e-mail or note is a great way to communicate. Put a note in your child's folder or write it on his assignment pad — whichever way it's most likely to reach the teacher.
  4. Bring a list of questions to conferences. Keep your meetings with the teacher focused and on-track by creating an agenda of things you want to cover.
  5. Volunteer. Pitch in when your child's teacher asks for help with projects.
  6. Say "Thanks!" Don't forget to thank your child's teacher for all he does. Send a note after report cards or an e-mail when your child raves about a project to let the teacher know he is appreciated.
Parent-Teacher Partnerships
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Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent and Teacher Communication