Teachers are your allies in education. They are uniquely qualified to recognize
learning styles, social issues, learning difficulties, special talents
and behavioral issues that your child may experience. Teachers have the
training and experience to recognize difficulties and nurture their talents,
but no one knows your child like you do. When you work together with your
child’s teachers and tutors, you can form an effective education team.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Start by divulging information about allergies and health issues so that
any special needs can be met. Also discuss talents and weaknesses so that
teachers can be prepared to provide your child with the best opportunity
to learn. For example if your child has trouble focusing, the teacher
may seat them in the front row or away from the window.
Changing Circumstances
There are ups and downs in each family and if there are unhappy circumstances
or changes at home, it’s really important to alert the teacher.
When teachers know what is happening at home, teachers can be more understanding
and sympathetic. This will also help them to recognize behavioral changes
that may need to be addressed. Even if you feel like your child is adjusting
well, they may act very differently at school.
Personality Quirks
If your student is very shy, prone to moodiness or has other behavioral
idiosyncrasies, its best to alert the teacher to the possibility so that
they can deal with situations better when they arise. You can also work
together to overcome behavioral issues.
Shared Academic Goals
Ask your teachers and tutors to work with your child to establish academic
goals that are challenging, but attainable. Knowing where they are going
and the rewards they can look forward to when they get there will help
to motivate them.
Learning styles
Einstein said: “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by
its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that
it is stupid.” You probably have a good idea of your student’s
learning style, but asking your teacher for their advice will show you
the best way to present information to your students. If your teacher
is not able to help you in this regard, it is essential that you get a
tutor. Tutors are specially trained to recognize learning styles. They can then
help to present information and teach skills in a way that your student
understands. This will vastly improve their grades and their confidence.
