How do you assess and respect parents' communication preferences?

Communication is a key factor in building a positive and productive relationship between parents and teachers. However, not all parents have the same communication preferences, and some may prefer different modes, frequencies, and styles of communication than others. How do you assess and respect parents' communication preferences without compromising your own needs and boundaries? Here are some tips to help you communicate effectively and respectfully with parents.

Key takeaways from this article

Ask and listen:

Start the school year by directly asking parents about their communication preferences through surveys or conferences. This allows you to accommodate their needs while explaining your own policies, fostering mutual respect.### *Meet families where they are:Be flexible and authentic, adapting to each family's unique situation. Offer various communication options and show empathy, ensuring parents feel heard and supported.

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1 Ask and listen

The first step to assess and respect parents' communication preferences is to ask them directly and listen to their answers. You can do this at the beginning of the school year, during parent-teacher conferences, or through a survey or questionnaire. Ask them how they prefer to receive information from you, how often they want to hear from you, and what topics they are most interested in. Listen to their feedback and try to accommodate their preferences as much as possible, while also explaining your own communication policies and expectations.

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2 Be flexible

Be flexible and adaptable to different situations and needs. You may need to use different communication modes for different purposes, such as email for general updates, phone calls for urgent matters, and video calls for in-depth discussions. You may also need to adjust your communication frequency and style depending on the parent's availability, responsiveness, and comfort level. For example, some parents may prefer more frequent and informal communication, while others may prefer less frequent and more formal communication.

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3 Be empathetic

Be respectful and empathetic of parents' perspectives, values, and experiences. You may encounter parents who have different cultural backgrounds, languages, beliefs, or opinions than you, and you may not always agree with them on everything. However, you can still communicate respectfully and empathetically by acknowledging their views, validating their feelings, and finding common ground. You can also use inclusive and affirming language, avoid making assumptions or judgments, and ask for clarification if you are unsure or confused.

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Chantal Dos Santos

Dedicated to supporting teachers throughout their careers.
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When dealing with parents always keep in mind the emotion attached to their child. Often we can forget to keep the whole child in mind outside of the walls of school. Showing parents that you are actively hearing them and soaking in their concerns is crucial for a conducive working relationship. We cannot educate a child fully without the support of their parents/guardians.

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4 Be clear and concise

Make sure that your communication is effective and efficient, and that you avoid any misunderstandings or confusion. You can do this by using simple and direct language, providing relevant and specific information, and organizing your communication in a logical and coherent way. You can also use visual aids, such as charts, graphs, or photos, to support your communication and make it more engaging and appealing.

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5 Be proactive

Show that you care about the parent's involvement and input, and that you are available and accessible for them. You can do this by initiating communication regularly, providing updates and feedback, and inviting questions and comments. You can also respond to their communication promptly, politely, and professionally, and follow up on any issues or concerns that arise.

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Chantal Dos Santos

Dedicated to supporting teachers throughout their careers.
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So often teachers only communicate with parents when things are going wrong or if there is an issue. Celebrate the good moments with parents and update them regularly on all the brilliant moment their child has during the week. Always contact a parent before their child goes home if something has happened during the school day. This allows the parent time to absorb what has happened and be able to respond to their child appropriately. Also things can be emotionally charged if the whole situation has not been explained in full. Always make that call.

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6 Be constructive

Foster a collaborative and cooperative atmosphere by highlighting the strengths and achievements of the student, expressing appreciation and recognition, and offering encouragement and praise. You can also provide constructive criticism and suggestions, focusing on the solutions and actions, rather than the problems and faults.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Yadira Mederos-Cardenas

Early Learning Teacher- Preschool Teacher - Transition Special Ed - Parent Mentor - Special Education Advocate -Teacher Coach
(edited)
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Meet the family where they are. Instead of assuming, be prepared to remove your shoes and put them aside so you can be in the family shoes. Be flexible and authentic as you are with them remember, we begin being part of their family. Always asking questions such as where, and how would you like the communication happens? Give options and open to any possibilities. Role modeling empathy and respect. Until the family feels ready. We don't know their situation. Having in mind why we're in this field. Our priority are the children and their families!

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How do you assess and respect parents' communication preferences?

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1 Ask and listen

2 Be flexible

3 Be empathetic

4 Be clear and concise

5 Be proactive

6 Be constructive

7 Here’s what else to consider

Parent-Teacher Communication

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