Getting to know your child's preschool teachers may seem like a simple thing, but it takes concentrated effort. The rewards, however, can have an amazing impact on early childhood education. Parents who take the time to create open communication, will not only help the teacher serve their child's needs better, but will also be reassured that their child is loved. They will feel like an active part of their child's life and will be able to act as a team with the teacher.

Getting to Know Your Preschool Teachers

When parents choose a preschool, it is important for them to get to know the preschool teachers. First, make sure that all forms and information sheets are filled out and returned as soon as possible. These help the teacher get to know the child and the parent. Then take time each day to interact with the teachers. Do not expect a long chat, but a couple of comments exchanged can go a long way toward establishing a rapport. In addition, do respect the chain of command if a problem arises. Discussing the issue with the teacher directly will go a long way toward resolving any problems.

Volunteering

Volunteering can be a rewarding way for parents to create a relationship with their child's preschool teachers. First, it will help the parents to feel involved and will help them know their child's routine. It also lets the child know that his or her education is valued. Keep in mind also that volunteering does not necessarily mean finding time every day. It might just mean chaperoning field trips or other special activities. Can't take time off work? Consider making needed crafts or snacks.

Parent to Teacher

When parents develop a relationship with their child's preschool teachers, open communication is established. The parents will often share things with the teacher that can help the teacher better meet the needs of the child. For example, a child might say something at home about something that is upsetting them. The parent can alert the teacher to resolve the situation and help protect their early learning environment. In addition, this kind of open dialogue will make the teacher more receptive to comments or suggestions.

Teacher to Parent

The benefits go both ways. Once a relationship is established, preschool teachers will feel more comfortable approaching parents regarding sensitive matters. Keep in mind that teachers sometimes spend more time with children than parents do, and children sometimes act differently at school. This means they can help parents identify both strengths and weaknesses. As a result, open communication will only strengthen the early childhood education process.

Reassurance

For parents, getting to know their child's preschool teachers offers the most precious gift of all - knowing that their child is being taught, loved, and cared for by a trusted adult. After all, that is what parents worry about most. Parents will have confidence in how certain situations will be handled and will have the assurance that they are being kept up-to-date on all aspects of their child's early childhood education.

Simply put - there are no drawbacks to getting to know your child's preschool teachers, and the impact on a child's early learning can be phenomenal. Parents and teachers can act as partners in helping the child to grow and learn. When problems do arise, a united front is the strongest approach. In addition, the parents and teachers have the reassurance that everyone wants what is best for the child. Who knows? They just might become friends.