Let's Talk, Teacher

Enrolling your child in a preschool can be a time of anxiety and uncertainty: How well will my child adjust to preschool? Will he make friends? Will my child be ready for formal school learning?

Establishing and maintaining an open, clear channel of communication with your child’s preschool teacher can lessen many parental concerns. By approaching your child’s teacher with an open mind, you can be a part of your child’s preschool experience and take pride in celebrating his achievements and successes.

HI, THERE Take the first step to get acquainted with your child’s teacher. Let them know your parenting practices and the learning dispositions you wish to develop in your child. Share with them any pertinent information about your child’s interest, limitation or specific needs.

FIND OUT MORE Communicate and exchange feedback with your child’s teacher regularly. Ask about the available communication channels the school practices. This can take the form of home-school communication books, conferences, telephone calls or written reports.

SEE HOW HE’S IMPROVE Request for updates on your child’s progress. This can take the form of anecdotal records, work samples and video or audio clips.

GET INVOLVED Visiting the classroom regularly is a great way for you to monitor your child’s learning experience. Offer to be a class resource parent to assist the teachers in planning and implementing any class activities.

BE OPEN-MINDED If the teacher has concerns about your child, avoid being defensive-this may make the teacher hesitant to discuss any problem for fear of confrontation. Try to ask direct and focused question to clarify and resolve issues to help support your child collaboratively.

Elaine Ng
Vice President, Enrichment and Oversea Operations
Cherie Heart Group International