10 Things Your Child’s Teacher Needs to Know

 

Make it easier for your child’s teacher to foster a positive relationship with your child by giving him the inside scoop on her likes, dislikes, and special needs. Write down the following information and send it to the teacher:

 

1. Favorite Subject: Point out the subjects that set your child’s brain on fire so his/her teacher knows how to engage them and challenge them in those areas.

2. Difficult Subjects: Knowing beforehand what subjects give your child trouble allows his/her teacher to pay special attention to those areas and look for ways to improve comprehension.

3. Allergies: It’s essential for your child’s teacher to know about any food or other allergies and how serious they are.

4. Medical Conditions: Inform your child’s teacher if your child has a medical condition that might require special attention, such as asthma or diabetes, or if he/she takes medication for behavioral or physical conditions.

5. After-School Activities: Explain the kinds of things your child is involved in when school lets out so the teacher understands all that goes on in your child’s daily life.

6. Religion: If your family practices a religion that requires your child to miss school, dress a certain way, or not eat particular foods, make sure to inform the teacher.

7. Family Issues: If there’s a new baby, death in the family, or divorce, it may affect your child in the classroom, so keep the teacher updated about what’s going on at home.

8. Sensitive Areas: Alert the teacher if your child is self-conscious about his/her weight or appearance, if he/she’s shy or stutters, or is particularly afraid of something, so the teacher can be aware and avoid potential trouble.

9. Hobbies and Interests: If you child is mad about music, loves llamas, or has a passion for pro basketball, the teacher may be able to tap into that interest in the classroom.

10. Temperament: Let the teacher know if your child tends to be cranky in the afternoon, gets frustrated by art projects, or hates to take naps. Mention any tried-and-true methods you’ve already discovered for dealing with less-than-ideal behavior.