Effective communication to parents 

1. Best ways to avoid misunderstandings

• Communicate after emotions have settled. However, communicate in a timely manner.
• Restate what the parent says, rather than making assumptions.
• Begin every interaction with a positive compliment about the student. Then, follow up with your "areas of concern."
• Do not diagnose a child, unless you are medically qualified to do so.
• Always state facts. Differentiate between your feelings, opinions, and facts.
• Every criticism does not warrant a response.

2. Explain how to keep in touch with parents

• Always use various methods of communication with parents (i.e., Email, Class Dojo, phone, etc).
• Document all contacts and/or attempt to contact parents.
• Respond to parent communication within 24-48 hrs. 
• Do not always make yourself readily available to parents, outside of school hours.

3. Don't feel pressured to make important decisions

• Do not force your opinions on parents.
• Allow parents to make decisions and provide support, as needed.

4. Let parents know they can trust you

• Build professional and trustworthy relationships with parents.
• Reassure parents that you can be trusted.
• Draw the line between teacher-parent relationships and inappropriate social relationships.

5. Assure parents you will let them know concerns immediately 

Ground Rules of Effective Communication with Parents Slides

Effective ways to communicate with parents