“We use a communication book created by Aleah’s Pre-K teacher, along with an online app called ParentSquare. We also have an app called Here Comes The Bus. I could not imagine not having these resources,” says Sarah. “We share messages and photos on the Parent Square app often, sometimes even on the weekends.”
Keeping your tone friendly and positive helps to build a strong relationship with school staff, which in turn improves overall communication. I strongly recommend going the extra mile to engage by sharing notes from home about your child’s mood, something your child did over the weekend, or simply sharing your appreciation for the work that is being done at school for your child.
If you are anything like me, you will need to trial several home-school communications systems until you find what works best for you and the staff at your child’s school. To identify the best system for you, I recommend you:
Although sending your loved one to school can be scary and challenging, the rewards are so important. “It is such a good thing to have time for my daughter to be without me and with her peers, and for me to not be with her,” says Megan. To give your child – and yourself – this important space, I encourage you to be open with staff at your child’s school and be okay with the fact that communication can be hard. Be proactive and willing to adapt, and you will find the best ways for you and your loved one to get the most out of school.
I know this is a lot of information, and if you’d like to communicate more about this topic, please don’t hesitate to email me at jennifer@rsrt.org.