Teachers appreciate politeness from parents, but some habits can secretly annoy them. Knowing these small things helps parents support teachers and keep the classroom running smoothly. Let’s begin with:
Emailing about your kid’s missing assignments
While it may seem helpful to handle communication about assignments, this habit can hinder your child’s ability to take responsibility. Encourage children over 12 to communicate directly with their teacher about their work. Teach them how to approach these conversations, prioritize their tasks, and navigate difficult feelings. These skills are essential for their development into responsible adults.
Signing up for the last parent-teacher conference slot
Signing up for the last slot to have more time can be unfair to other parents and exhausting for teachers. Stick to your allotted time and schedule a separate meeting if you need more time. Being punctual and respectful of the schedule shows consideration for everyone involved. If longer discussions are needed, detailed emails or separate meetings are preferable.
Sending in boxes of chocolates or candy
Though well-intentioned, frequent treats can become a distraction and unhealthy temptation. Instead, place food gifts in the teacher’s break room or skip food gifts altogether. Personal notes from parents and kids are highly valued and appreciated by teachers. These notes convey heartfelt gratitude without adding unnecessary distractions.
Disciplining a student for them
Designing punishments for your child without consulting the teacher can create additional burdens. Support the school’s discipline methods and collaborate with teachers on managing behavior. If you feel additional consequences are needed, implement them at home. Consistent support of school policies ensures effective behavior management.
Gifting personalized “teacher awards”
Tchotchkes with cute sayings can accumulate and become impractical. Instead, handwritten notes or cards from students and parents are cherished. These personal touches mean more to teachers and require no additional storage. Complimenting teachers to school administrators can also positively impact their careers.
Cleaning their desk or supply cabinet
While helping to clean might seem thoughtful, it can disrupt a teacher’s organizational system. Always ask first if there are specific tasks you can assist with. Encouraging students to clean helps them take responsibility for their space. Respecting a teacher’s method of organization is more helpful than imposing your system.
Giving them elaborate holiday gifts
Class gifts should be practical and considerate of the teacher’s preferences and needs. Avoid themed gifts that may not be useful. Cash or versatile gift cards are often the best options. Ensuring gifts are thoughtful and practical shows genuine appreciation.
Texting your child reminders during class
Frequent texts during class can be distracting rather than helpful. Encourage your child to follow school rules about phone use. Discussing daily tasks in the morning or providing checklists can help them stay organized. Trust your child to manage their responsibilities independently.
Setting up extra programs
Initiating programs like clubs or gardens requires commitment and follow-through. Before starting, ensure you can dedicate the necessary time and resources. Collaborate with the teacher to support existing programs or to develop new ones effectively. Proper planning prevents additional burdens on the teacher.
Signing up for every volunteer activity
Over-volunteering can sometimes lead to feelings of entitlement or domination. Choose activities your child values most and share opportunities with other parents. This balance helps your child gain independence and allows others to contribute. Effective volunteering respects the needs and dynamics of the classroom.
Trying to be their bestie (or more)
Crossing professional boundaries by seeking personal relationships with teachers can be awkward. Maintain a respectful and professional relationship focused on your child’s education. If romantic interest arises, wait until your child is no longer their student. Keeping interactions professional ensures a healthy school environment.
Reading emails but not replying
Teachers appreciate knowing their communications are being read and valued. A simple “thank you” or acknowledgment can make a big difference. Some teachers prefer minimal emails, so understanding their communication style is crucial. Positive feedback is always appreciated and helps build a strong relationship.
Baking them cookies or bread
Homemade goodies may be less appreciated due to hygiene concerns. Opt for prepackaged treats or bakery gift cards instead. This thoughtful gesture respects health considerations while still showing appreciation. Teachers value cleanliness and thoughtfulness in food gifts.
Oversharing personal information
Share only relevant details about your child’s life that impact their school experience. Avoid divulging overly personal or embarrassing information. Keeping communications professional and focused on the student’s needs is more effective. Teachers can better support your child with appropriate and relevant information.
Looking for loopholes to get around school rules
Encourage your child to follow school rules rather than finding ways to bend them. Respect the teacher’s need to adhere to these rules. Supporting the established guidelines helps maintain a positive learning environment. Creativity should be channeled within the boundaries of school policies.
Not wanting to “bother” them with your feelings
Students should feel free to share personal concerns with trusted teachers. Teachers want to help and support their students emotionally. Encourage open communication about personal issues that affect the student’s well-being. Parents should guide children to appropriately seek support when needed.
Contacting the teacher about every little thing
Attempt to resolve minor issues independently before involving the teacher. This helps teachers focus on more significant concerns and respects their time. Only escalate important matters to maintain a productive communication channel. Trust your judgment in distinguishing between major and minor issues.
Asking for special treatment
Requesting exceptions for your child can undermine fairness in the classroom. Encourage your child to follow the same rules as everyone else. This promotes equality and teaches them to work within established guidelines. Special treatment requests can create unnecessary complications for teachers.
Showing up unannounced
Unscheduled visits can disrupt classroom activities and lesson plans. Always communicate and schedule a meeting in advance. This ensures the teacher is prepared and available to address your concerns. Respecting the teacher’s schedule demonstrates consideration and courtesy.
Assuming the teacher is always available
Teachers have personal lives and commitments outside school hours. Avoid contacting them outside of school unless it’s an emergency. Respecting their personal time fosters a healthier work-life balance. Understanding and adhering to boundaries strengthens the parent-teacher relationship.
Micromanaging your child’s schoolwork
Allow your child to manage their assignments and develop independence. Over-involvement can hinder their ability to learn responsibility. Trust the teacher’s methods and your child’s capability to handle their work. Support them without taking over their tasks.
Gossiping about other students or parents
Maintaining a professional and positive relationship with the teacher is crucial. Avoid engaging in gossip or negative discussions about others. Focus on constructive and supportive communication. This fosters a respectful and collaborative school environment.
Volunteering but not following through
If you commit to helping, ensure you fulfill your responsibilities. Inconsistent volunteering can create additional burdens for teachers. Reliable support is more valuable than overcommitting and underdelivering. Fulfillment of commitments builds trust and reliability.
Criticizing the teacher in front of your child
Negative comments about teachers can undermine their authority and respect. Address any concerns privately and constructively. Showing support for the teacher fosters a positive learning environment. A unified approach between parents and teachers benefits the child.
Ignoring school policies
Familiarize yourself with and adhere to school policies and procedures. Respecting these guidelines supports the school’s efforts to maintain order and safety. Consistent adherence to policies sets a good example for your child. Understanding and following rules creates a cohesive school community.
Bringing up unrelated personal issues during meetings
Keep discussions with teachers focused on your child’s education. Address personal concerns separately to avoid diverting attention. Staying on topic ensures productive and relevant conversations. Respecting the teacher’s time and focus is essential.
Demanding frequent updates
Trust the teacher’s judgment and ask for updates only when necessary. Frequent demands can overwhelm teachers and disrupt their workflow. Rely on scheduled meetings and communications for regular updates. Effective communication balances the need for information with respect for the teacher’s time.
Providing unsolicited advice
Respect the teacher’s expertise and avoid giving advice unless asked. Trust their professional judgment in managing the classroom and curriculum. Unsolicited advice can be seen as undermining their authority. Collaboration works best when based on mutual respect and understanding.
Expecting immediate responses to emails or messages
Allow reasonable time for the teacher to respond to your communications. Immediate responses may not always be feasible due to their busy schedules. Patience and understanding help maintain a respectful communication channel. Timely yet considerate interactions foster positive relationships.
Comparing your child to others
Focus on your child’s unique progress and avoid comparisons with other students. Each child develops at their own pace and has individual strengths. Celebrate their achievements without creating unnecessary pressure. Positive reinforcement encourages personal growth and confidence.
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