Best Practices for Parent-Teacher Communication

Building Strong Relationships

Effective communication between parents and teachers is crucial for a child’s academic success and well-being. A strong parent-teacher relationship creates a supportive learning environment, ensuring the child receives consistent guidance both at home and in the classroom. Here are some best practices to foster positive, productive communication between parents and educators, from Early Achievers Preschool Hawaii.

Establish Open Communication Early

Building strong communication begins with establishing open lines of contact early in the school year. Teachers should introduce themselves to parents and share preferred methods for communication, such as email or phone calls. In return, parents should feel comfortable reaching out with any questions or concerns.

Transparency about classroom goals and expectations helps create trust. Teachers should clearly explain academic and behavioral expectations, allowing parents to align their support at home with what’s happening in the classroom.

Provide Regular Updates

Regular updates are key to keeping parents informed and engaged in their child’s learning. Weekly newsletters, classroom apps, or progress reports can inform parents about upcoming projects, events, or any changes in their child’s progress. Early intervention, when a child is struggling, allows parents and teachers to address the issue together before it becomes a larger problem.

Sharing positive updates as well is important—this helps reinforce a child’s achievements and encourages continuous growth.

Create a Two-Way Dialogue with Active Listening

Effective communication requires active listening. Teachers should be empathetic when listening to parents’ concerns, ensuring their insights about their child’s unique needs are valued. Parents, in turn, should actively listen to feedback from teachers, which can provide valuable context on their child’s classroom behavior and academic performance.

A two-way dialogue fosters mutual respect, helping both parties collaborate more effectively on a child’s learning journey.

Parent-Teacher Conferences Should Be Held Regularly

Parent-teacher conferences offer an opportunity for in-depth discussions on a child’s progress. These meetings should address not just grades but also emotional, social, and behavioral development. Teachers should come prepared with specific examples of the child’s strengths and challenges, while parents can share their observations and ask questions.

Conferences should also focus on problem-solving—if challenges arise, both parties can work together to create strategies that best support the child.

Be Mindful of Cultural Differences

Cultural awareness is crucial in communication. Teachers should be mindful of the diverse backgrounds that families come from and recognize that some parents may feel uncomfortable asserting themselves due to cultural or language barriers. Schools should provide translation services if needed and create an inclusive environment where all parents feel respected.

Respecting cultural differences ensures that all families are valued, strengthening the home-school connection.

Focus on Positive Communication

Positive communication builds trust and strengthens relationships. Teachers should regularly share good news with parents, not just concerns or negative feedback. Celebrating small victories, like academic improvements or acts of kindness, helps create a positive rapport.

Parents can also frame concerns constructively, focusing on how to support their child’s learning. This creates an environment of collaboration rather than confrontation.

Align on Behavior Expectations

Consistency between home and school is vital. Teachers should set clear expectations for classroom behavior, while parents can communicate any challenges their child faces. When parents and teachers align on these expectations, children receive consistent messages about their responsibilities.

A unified approach to leads to better outcomes for children, helping them thrive both academically and socially.

At Early Achievers Preschool Hawaii, we believe strong parent-teacher communication is essential to creating a supportive learning environment. By establishing open communication, providing regular updates, listening actively, and maintaining a positive and collaborative approach, both parents and teachers can ensure the best possible outcomes for children. A cohesive partnership between home and school allows children to grow and succeed, supported by a united team of caring adults. Visit us at Early Achievers Preschool Hawaii to find out more!