When your child starts school, you’re not just dropping them off and hoping for the best—you’re entering a partnership. One that works best when you and the teacher are on the same page. Whether your child’s in a traditional classroom or a Montessori setup, building a good relationship with their teacher can make a big difference in how they thrive at school. So how do you make that collaboration natural, helpful, and not weirdly awkward?
Here are 3 practical tips.
Don’t Wait for Parent-Teacher Conferences
A lot of parents think the only time to really talk to the teacher is during scheduled meetings. But here’s the thing: if something’s bothering you or if your child is going through a phase it helps to flag it early. You don’t need a formal meeting. A quick note in the school diary, a short message through the school app, or a polite email can open the door.
Start small. Just say something like, “Hey, I noticed Maya’s been a little quiet at home lately. Let me know if you notice anything in class.” That shows you’re paying attention and invites the teacher to share observations too. It’s not being a helicopter parent, it’s just being part of the team.
Share, Don’t Overshare
Teachers are great at what they do, but they’re not mind readers. Give them a heads-up about things that might affect your child’s learning. New baby at home? Recently moved? Going through a picky eating phase that’s making lunchtime a drama? Those little insights help the teacher support your child better in class.
That said, you want to keep it balanced. No need to send a three-page email about every meltdown at home. Stick to what’s helpful and relevant. Think of it like passing the baton – just enough information for them to run their part of the race.
Celebrate the Small Wins Out Loud
One of the easiest ways to build a strong relationship with your child’s teacher is to say thank you. Not just for the big moments like end-of-term reports, but for the small stuff. Did your child come home excited about a science experiment? Mention it. Did the teacher help your kid feel more confident reading aloud? Let them know you noticed.
This kind of positive feedback goes a long way. It shows the teacher that their efforts matter not just to your child, but to you too. And honestly, it builds goodwill. So if you ever do need to bring up a concern, it’s coming from a place of trust, not criticism.
At the end of the day, you and your child’s teacher both want the same thing: a happy, engaged learner who feels seen and supported. So talk, listen, and show up when it matters even if it’s just with a quick thank-you note or a heads-up message. That’s how you create a real partnership.
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