By Megan Kwan-Nixon
18th October 2022
Today, we’re focusing on an important topic for parents: the ten questions you must ask your child’s teacher. As an educator with experience in both public and independent schools, it is vital for parents to engage effectively in their child’s learning journey. By asking the right questions, you can build a strong foundation for communication and collaboration, ensuring that your child’s educational needs are met.
Why These Questions Matter
At the beginning of the school year, emotions can run high for students, teachers, and parents alike. Establishing a positive relationship with your child’s teacher is crucial for fostering a supportive learning environment. These ten questions are designed to help you engage meaningfully with your child’s teacher, setting the stage for open dialogue throughout the school year.
The 10 Questions
Understanding how your child’s progress is evaluated can help you support their learning at home. There are two main types of assessments: formative and summative. Formative assessments serve as check-ins to gauge understanding without the pressure of a final exam, while summative assessments summarize learning at the end of a unit. Knowing when these assessments occur enables you to provide timely support during high-stress periods, helping your child feel more prepared.
This question provides a focal point for supporting your child. The teacher’s answer may change throughout the year, but it gives you a targeted area to reinforce at home, whether it’s an academic skill or a fundamental life skill like following routines. Having a specific goal can prevent your child from feeling overwhelmed and help them focus their efforts.
Asking this question opens the door for collaboration. When teachers feel supported by parents, it fosters stronger communication and a more positive learning environment for students. By understanding how you can assist, you can become an active participant in your child’s education.
Establishing a reliable method of communication is vital for effective collaboration. Whether it’s via email, phone calls, or scheduled appointments, knowing how to reach your child’s teacher will facilitate more productive discussions about your child’s progress and any concerns that may arise.
Understanding the end goals for your child’s learning helps you support them effectively at home. This question provides insight into the curriculum and helps you identify any potential gaps in understanding. Knowing what the teacher aims for your child to grasp allows you to reinforce those concepts during homework or family discussions.
In today’s educational landscape, creativity is crucial. Understanding how a teacher fosters creativity can help you encourage these skills at home, reinforcing the value of innovation and problem-solving. Ask about projects, activities, or lessons that promote creative thinking, and consider how you can replicate those experiences outside of school.
Literacy is foundational for all learning. Ask your child’s teacher for specific strategies and resources to promote reading and writing skills at home. This can include fun family activities that make literacy enjoyable, such as shared reading time, storytelling, or writing prompts. Engaging in literacy together can foster a love for reading and improve comprehension skills.
Teachers have varying philosophies about homework. Understanding your child’s teacher’s approach can help you manage expectations and support your child more effectively. Ask about the purpose of homework and how you can help your child complete it in a way that promotes learning rather than causing stress.
Social skills are just as important as academic ones. Open a dialogue with the teacher about your child’s social challenges and ask for strategies to help them navigate friendships and social situations. Understanding how your child interacts with peers can provide valuable insights into their overall well-being.
This question highlights the importance of mutual support. Teachers often face numerous challenges, and showing that you are willing to assist them can strengthen your partnership. By actively participating in your child’s educational experience, you contribute to a more positive and effective learning environment.
By asking these ten questions, you can create a supportive environment that prioritizes your child’s educational needs. Open lines of communication between parents and teachers are essential for ensuring that children thrive academically and socially. Hopefully these insights will help you foster a successful and enriching school year for your child. Your involvement can make a significant difference in their academic journey.
