Communicating with Children and Teachers

By Barb Vasiloff

Some phrases never become outdated when it comes to raising children.  They can be said with poise and confidence and in a calm but firm manner.  Once spoken, there is nothing more to say except perhaps, to repeat the phrase a second or third time.

Six key phrases you might want to add to your vocabulary are these:

"I understand."

"Probably so."

"Nevertheless."

"I'm sorry."

"It's ok to be mad but not mean."

"Almost, but not quite."

Keep track of the contacts you make with your child's teacher. 

A simple log like the one below is a good tool to use when conference time arrives.

Make 6 columns on a sheet of paper.  Label the columns using these titles:

1. Date
2. Child's name
3. Nature of the contact ö Negative or Positive
4. Initiated by:  Parent or Teacher
5. Phone, Written note, Face to face
6. Comments regarding the contact.

Remind yourself that teachers thrive when they are encouraged and given praise for their efforts.  A small written note once a quarter is very appreciated.

Let teachers know that you understand there are two sides to every story.  Don't automatically accept your child's point of view as the total picture.  Remember the story of the blind men and the elephant?  Each blind man felt only one part of the elephant and believed they had found something quite wonderful!  None of their descriptions could accurately describe what was in front of them.