Working with parents is at the top of the list of teacher stressors. And boy, do we get it. Sometimes it feels like if you could take the adults out of the equation, teaching would be a walk in the park. But working with parents doesn’t have to be such a mental battlefield.
Below, you’ll find strategies to help you with the most difficult parts of working with parents, so that you can focus on what matters most.
1. Start with the basics
Doing these simple things can go a long way toward smoother parent-teacher relationships.
11 Teacher-Tested Ways to Make Your Classroom Parents Adore You
2. Use technology to connect
We love these apps for growing parent engagement.
3. Understand where parents are coming from
Perspective is everything.
I Used to Think My Students’ Parents Just Didn’t Care. I Was Wrong.
4. Pay attention to sensitivities
Because when you show that you care, you build trust.
10 Things You Should Know About Parents of Children with Special Needs
5. Be inclusive
Avoid tuning anyone out with these ideas.
50 Tips and Tricks to Facilitating a More Inclusive Classroom
6. Nurture parent involvement
Sometimes it takes a little creative thinking to get families involved.
Best of Teacher HELPLINE: How Can I Grow Parent Involvement in My Class?
7. Focus on relationships
Discover the most common roadblocks to connecting with families.
5 Ways Schools Can Build Positive Relationships With Parents (Even Tough Ones)
8. Handle strong emotions with care
Chances are, you can get to a place of mutual understanding.
9. Avoid the “he said, she said” battle
Nothing good ever comes of it.
7 Tips for Avoiding “He Said/She Said” Conflicts With Parents
10. Nail parent conferences
You can do it, really.
What are your secrets to working with parents? We’d love to hear in the comments.
