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Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. – Nelson Mandela
This makes the teacher (be it a parent or a formal educator) the most powerful world changer. (Is your mind blown?!)
Research suggests your child has developed between 80-90% of their brain by the time they reach age 5. Between ages 5 and 18, teachers use that foundation to fill it with knowledge and character. At age 18, the (basically) fully-developed brain becomes an adult ready to take on the world.
So with all of this, making sure our teachers are supported might be one of the most important ways we, as parents, can support our own children—and the future of the world.
Wow. Crazy, right?!
I polled many teachers in different age groups and even thought back to personal experience.
The results? Three very simple themes:
- Communicate.
- Be consistent.
- Be kind.
Count them, 1, 2, 3! (That’s it!)
Communication is key!
First and foremost, teachers want to feel in the loop! (Just like you do at home!) If there is a tactic that is working for you at home motivating your child to care about spelling, share that! Similarly, if there is a certain reward you are working toward so your child can buy a gumball machine or a new car, share that! Is your child acting out at home because you may have some big family changes coming up, share that! Schedule a conference if you don’t think an email, phone call or drop off time will work. Trust me, if you’re noticing a behavior, they probably are, too. And if your teacher does something you don’t like, communicate them respectfully. Above all, teachers want to meet your needs as well and became teachers because they love learning, too.
Be consistent!
Next, kids (and parents/teachers) need to know what to expect. However you choose to address that acting out, let them partner and work with you. It can take a really good ol’ fashioned elementary try to work through the tough stuff. Be patient, this might take several weeks before it can actually happen, but together it can be done. Working on getting into a homework routine? Be consistent. If you said 30 minutes of tablet time AFTER homework, stick with it. If you aren’t sure why the teachers are making certain requests, head back up to number 1. Knowing the why can motivate you, too. And if you aren’t sure what to do, ask for help and trust your teacher. They usually know what they’re doing!
Be kind and smile!
Teachers are a part of your family. They are helping you raise your child whether your child is 16 weeks, 16 months or 16 years. A heartfelt thank you note or a smile can go farther than one can fully imagine! Educators are in it for the passion and the ability to change the world. Let them.
And at the end of the day…
All they want is to go home feeling confident that they did everything they possibly could to ensure your child is successful today, tomorrow, and in days to come. Your support can ensure that, and it’s all teachers need to keep on keeping on day after day.
Buuuuuut…don’t underestimate how a treat or small trinket can brighten someone’s day (not just a teacher’s!). It doesn’t hurt to grab an extra pack or two of markers or a sweet treat to show them that you noticed they prefer a green tea over an iced coffee. And I mean come on; who doesn’t like a freshly baked brownie?
Need some ideas?
Head on over to our {How to} Appreciate Your Teacher board on Pinterest, and let Richmond Moms Blog help you out!
And while you’re at it, share your nomination for the RMB Mom of the Month. This month, we’re looking for an educator!
