When compassion is bathed in love, most parents will accept the teacher's explanation, even if some doubts still exist. The parent-teacher conference should be called as soon as a problem emerges, not when it comes to fruition or when it is too late in the year to do anything. When parents are enlisted at the proper time and in the proper manner, the parent-teacher conference will become a joy for the teacher and the parents. A team relationship is essential to productive communications. The success of communicative efforts is dependent on prayer, strategy, and a positive school-home relationship.
Planning is the key.
Take the time to plan your communicative endeavors. The following communication ideas will help teachers and principals keep the lines of communication open and informative. Send progress reports on a periodic basis. Use report cards with written teacher comments. Require tests to be signed by parents and returned to the teacher.