This weekend I have attended a few Christmas parties with my daughter. While she was joining in the festivities I had a chat to some of the parents who have school-aged children, about school. I was surprised to hear that so many had no idea where their child should be heading. This is not the first time that I have heard parents speak in this way. Phrases, such as, "I keep being told he/she is fine," or "I don't understand these reports," and many more along these lines.
I know we are busy as teachers. We really don't have time to talk to every single parent for hours at a time, but... here's the thing. We need to! Parents don't have the access to resources that we have. They are going into this completely blind. If all we keep saying is that they're doing fine, they're doing fine, then the parent and child have nothing to aim for. Even my top reading/writing/maths group children have something to work on. Parents need to know what their child needs to work on. Keep communicating, "(insert name here) is doing well in (subject), but if you would like to help at home, here are some things you could focus on."
Each one of my groups is planned on what they are learning to do. Make sure parents can see what the group focus is that week. I always run tracking sheets while I teach so that I can note down how each child is doing while observing them during group teaching sessions. As each child has mastered a skill, I tick it off and date it. If a parent comes in at any time of the term I can refer to these and say, "(insert name here) is learning to..."
Parents are frustrated because they don't know how they can help their children at home and they aren't sure how to get the information they need. In reality, two reports a year are not enough. By the time the end of year report is in the parent's hand it is too late for them to do anything about it. This is why I believe that e-portfolios for children are a must. Parents need to access real data, in real time. If this is not an option then start a class blog for those parents who cannot come in to talk to you. Let them know that way what your class is working on.
It has been an eye-opening experience, going back to work and seeing schooling from a parent's perspective, as well as, a teacher's. I know everyone is winding down for the holidays, but if there could be a goal for you, for when you start back, then maybe it could be to open up the communication lines between home and school.
Hope everyone has a fabulous break. Teachers, recharge your batteries. Parents, enjoy the time you have with your children. I know I will :)
