You’ve already made the adjustment back to routine… prepping the night before, setting alarms for early wakeups, the battle to get everyone dressed and out the door on time… you know the drill. But your role doesn’t end when you get the kids out the door: they follow them into the classroom. So whether your child is an angelic soul or spirited, thank goodness for the teachers who keep them learning, safe and loved all day. Here are # things your child’s teacher wishes you knew:
#1 – They’re invested – literally.
It’s no secret that people don’t go into teaching for the money. But what many parents don’t realize is that teachers often spend sizable amounts of their less-than-stellar salaries to enhance the learning experience and environment. Some parents balk at supply lists… but don’t think about the fact that, if they don’t fulfill it, the teacher may need to. That doesn’t seem fair. Do what you can to support your child’s teacher, and when possible, check in whether they need anything.
#2 – They love your child, even on the “rough” days.
All kids have days that are tougher than others. And just like at home, there are going to be days they give their teacher a run for their money. It’s ok if not every moment is perfect – and you don’t need to constantly apologize for every small thing your child does (though acknowledgement can be refreshing, at times). Teachers don’t expect perfection – they’ll still love your child, even on the bad days.
#3 – They want to hear from you.
Your child works hard all day, so there’s nothing sadder than seeing a folder come back to school with yesterday’s materials still in it. Your involvement is huge – your child sees it, and so do your child’s teachers. While the teacher likely doesn’t have bandwidth for daily check-ins, they’ll always appreciate hearing from you – particularly if you take a moment to acknowledge something positive.
#4 – Your child’s at their best when…
Any teacher can tell you that there are themes that run through any child’s behavior. For example, late nights are likely to cause lackluster performance the next day. But there are also tons of studies that support teacher’s findings that children who are involved in sports and after-school activities perform better in the classroom. Their attention levels are higher, they have a willingness to please, they persevere, and, as a result, their grades seem to be higher. Keep them involved outside of school and they’re likely to do better in it.
#5 – You’re doing great.
Teachers spend day in and day out with your child, and, as a result, get
to know you by extension. Your child talks, so they get to hear snippets of what home life and your child’s relationship with you is like. Part of teaching kids is getting to know the parents – and while there will always be challenges, and some days are bound to be less perfect than others, as a whole, you’re doing great.