PARENT TEACHER RELATION ( TALKING TO PRESCHOOL TEACHER)

Getting to Know the Teacher

While in the classroom, pay attention to how the teacher runs the class and how the children respond to his or her direction.When you talk with the teacher, ask about a typical day. You may also want to ask specific questions, such as, "If my child came into class crying one morning, how might you handle that?" or "How do you deal with a child who hits others?"A teacher's answers can help you evaluate how creative he or she might be in responding to everyday classroom dilemmas.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Typically, these conferences cover a child's play style and social, language, cognitive, and physical development.Most of the time, a preschool teacher will emphasize your child's strengths. But the parent-teacher conference also offers an opportunity to point out areas that your child may need to work on. For example, a teacher may suggest writing letters, stringing beads, or practicing cutting skills at home to improve fine motor skills.Try to ask direct and focused questions, with the assumption that any problems raised are ones that can be solved. If your work schedule doesn't allow you to attend conferences or if the preschool doesn't schedule them, you should feel comfortable making arrangements to speak with the teacher at other times. Meeting or talking regularly with the teacher will help you understand your child's progress and demonstrate your interest and cooperation.

Discussing Problems

The best tip is for parents and the teacher to sit down and discuss the issue together.If your preschooler complains about the teacher, try to find out the specifics.In deciding whether to bring up a problem with a preschool teacher, it's important not to overestimate a preschooler's point of view. If, for example, your toddler complains that "no one plays with me" or "I'm bored" in school, give it some time if it doesn't seem serious.If you have concerns about the teacher's style or performance, talk to him or her first. If your concerns aren't resolved to your satisfaction, your next stop should be the teacher's supervisor.It's better to show kids how to work through problems rather than avoid them.

Building a Relationship

It's important to form a good relationship with your child's preschool teacher — for both you and your child.Remember to also share praise — both yours and your child's — with the teacher, as well as his or her supervisor ("My child really enjoys storytime," for example).Think of yourself and your child's teacher as a united team whose shared goal is to help make your child's preschool experience a happy and productive one.