Preschool Parent's Rapport with Teachers

What You Need To Know

There’s a lot to think about when your child starts preschool. One of those things should be how to establish a good relationship with the teacher. Establishing and maintaining an open, clear channel of communication with your child's preschool teacher can lessen many parental concerns.

• Get To Know the Teacher – Ask specific questions like “How do you deal with a child who hits?” The answer and the manner in which they say it can give you a little incite on the teacher’s disposition.
• Utilize Parent-Teacher Conferences – The teacher will usually focus on the child’s strengths. Try not to be defensive if the teacher has concerns. Ask direct and focused questions with the idea that all problems are solvable. You can always schedule future time for a follow-up.
• Discuss Problems Directly - Approach the teacher with an open mind and clear, direct questions.
• Build A Relationship/Use Praise - It's important to form a good relationship with your child's preschool teacher — for both you and your child. Try to make the teacher feel appreciated. Kind words to a teacher can energize them which is a positive benefit for everyone.

How You Can Help

If a problem arises, such as fighting or biting the parent and teacher should sit down and discuss the issue together. If your child complains about the teacher, get specifics. Sometimes preschoolers might complain if they didn’t get a classroom job they wanted. It’s helpful to support the teacher and talk with your child about following rules and taking turns.

If you decide to bring up a problem it’s important not to overestimate a preschooler's point of view. A child may come home saying “I have no friends”. If it’s not a serious issue give things some time before taking it to the teacher. Tomorrow your child may think everyone loves him or her.

If you have concerns about the teacher's performance, talk to him or her first before going to the teacher's supervisor. Try to work out any problems to avoid changing preschool teachers midyear.

Just keep building a positive relationship with your child’s teacher. You are both on the same team working toward a happy and productive preschool experience for your child.