How can you establish a cordial relationship with parents and caregivers? Building a positive partnership with families is an important factor to students’ overall success. Find ways to work with parents and caregivers to ensure that students are learning in and outside of school with the following tips.
How to Build Positive Relationships with Parents and Guardians as a Teacher
1. Send classroom news and updates
To build rapport with parents and guardians, keep them in the know by sending weekly newsletters or emails. This form of communication can help families stay in the loop and help build a stronger connection.
2. Create a survey
If you want to show families that you’re interested in their feedback, consider asking parents and caregivers to fill out an anonymous survey. This will provide them with a safe space to share their thoughts and will show them that you see the value of their opinions and any feedback that they may be willing to share.
3. Offer volunteer opportunities
Many families want to be involved in their child’s school life, so offer volunteer opportunities. Consider asking for chaperones for a class party or volunteers to assist you with planning class events in the year to come. Families that don’t have time to dedicate to class events, can help in different ways. For example, some families can volunteer to sharpen pencils for the classroom outside of school or donate materials for an arts and crafts project.
4. Host an open house
Invite your students’ parents and caregivers to an open house. This will give you a chance to explain what you do in the classroom and what a typical day looks like. It will also allow parents and caregivers a time to ask questions and learn anything they want to know about their child’s education. Don’t be afraid it to get a little personal and share about your own interests and life outside of school. This helps families see you as a person. Authenticity is the best way to go.
5. Share good news
Make the effort to share positive news about students’ academic growth and good behavior. For example, call parents or caregivers to highlight a good grade or send a note to spotlight a small act of kindness their child did that day.
6. Show gratitude
Some of the most impactful words you can say to a parent or guardian are “thank you.” When a parent or guardian takes time out of their busy schedule to help you with a task or open up a conversation, thank them! Showing gratitude shows families that you are genuine and appreciative of all they do inside and outside of the classroom.
This article was adapted from a blog post initially developed by the education technology company Classcraft, which was acquired by HMH in 2023. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of HMH.
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