How will my child make it through the school year? Will he succeed with his self esteem intact? If you are feeling this way as the new school year approaches, remember no one knows your child better than you. You are an expert at knowing his likes and dislikes, what upsets or motivates him and what gives him difficulty or pleasure in school. His teacher is experienced and knowledgeable in educational techniques and subject matter. Working as a team, you and your child’s teacher can enhance his potential for a successful year.
To be a dynamic duo, you must appreciate each others’ strengths and limitations. For most effective results you will want to develop mutual goals and a plan of action. Because the teacher cannot anticipate every child’s special needs, you need to initiate a dialogue.
Open House and Parent -Teacher conferences are the traditional time to get acquainted; however, if your child struggles with learning, behavior, attention, coordination or emotional control, it is wise to meet before school starts. This early meeting will give the teacher more time to spend with you and to consider strategies to help your child. Once school starts, she won’t have to spend precious time identifying his problems by trial and error; she can concentrate on meeting the goals you have defined together.
To make your meeting more effective:
• Call ahead and make an appointment.
• Do not bring your child, this will decrease interruptions and allow you to talk openly.
• Make a list of the issues you need to discuss and avoid getting sidetracked.
• Be prepared with concrete suggestions.
• If your child is receiving assistance outside of the school such as therapy or tutoring, bring written information and reports from these services.
• Encourage communication between these professionals and the teacher.
• Explain any medical problems, unusual fears, unusual eating habits, etc.
• Be realistic in what you expect from the teacher. She must work within the state laws and guide lines and she has 26 or 27 other students who also need her attention.
• Take notes of your meeting, come away with a plan of action and a plan for continuing communication
This initial meeting is your first step. It’s critical to continue the dialogue you start. As a Dynamic Duo you need to be action-oriented and flexible. Be prepared to change your strategy if you aren’t succeeding. The teacher is the expert in education, but don’t underestimate the need for your involvement. You are the only member of the Duo that will still be involved with your child in the coming years.
GOOD LUCK!
