Howdy Partner!

Part of our theme DISconnect is not just about “disconnecting” but also the idea that we need to find ways to connect more as a community. Over the next few weeks I’d like to take the opportunity to write about the importance of the partnership between Dalat and our parents. The education of children is most effective and the possibility of success dramatically increases when the school and parents see each other as partners. As parents you play a vital role in the success of your child’s education.

A little while ago I read an article titled “What Teachers Wish You Knew.” The article did an excellent job of discussing the partnership that should exist between teachers and parents. After interviewing teachers across the country (USA), the article provided seven suggestions as to how parents can help teachers in educating their children. This week I will highlight the first three suggestions:

1. Don’t be a Stranger

Get to know your child’s teacher. Introduce yourself to your child’s teacher even if this must be done through email. Establishing a relationship will make important communication easier. Approaching the teacher to ask a question or voice a concern is much easier if a relationship has been established earlier. Not only that – teachers want to get to know you.

2. Learning Doesn’t Stop at 3:35pm

You can help the teacher by talking with your child about what he or she learned in school that day. This can serve as a review for your child and make you aware of the topics and skills your child is learning. You can even ask your child to demonstrate a new skills (long division, speaking in Spanish, etc) as this will build his or her self-confidence.

3. Let Your Child Make Mistakes

Remember, your child is learning. Teachers do not want perfect students; instead they are looking for students who work hard and try. It’s okay for kids to get some of the problems wrong. This can help the teacher see what material needs to be covered again. If your child is struggling with an assignment help him or her brainstorm possible solutions. Resist the temptation of solving the problem for your child. What matters most in learning is not the final result but the processes by which the student gets to the final result.

Next week I will highlight two more suggestions from the article. I want to assure you that Dalat believes strongly in the idea of partnering with parents. If you have any ideas on how we can do that better, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Have a great Chinese New Year