Importance of Parents in Education 🏫
Having a positive, professional, relationship with the parents of your pupils can make a huge difference in their achievement and attainment. This post explores how to build those relationships.
Why Focus on SEMH Pupils?
SEMH pupils often face significant challenges that make their educational journey more complex. These students need comprehensive support not just from teachers, but also from their families/carers. Effective communication with parents/carers is essential in providing that support
1. The Power of Partnership 🤝
When teachers and parents collaborate, they create a powerful support system for SEMH pupils. By sharing insights and strategies, they can better address the unique needs of each child.
Example: Parent/carers know that their child settles best in the morning with something to eat and drink. The teacher then makes juice and biscuits available for the child and sees a dramatic improvement in their behaviour.
2. A Complete Perspective 🖼️
Parents offer invaluable insights into their child’s experiences outside of school. This holistic view helps teachers understand the full picture, ensuring that support is consistent and effective.
Example: Parents/carers know if their child finds particular noises/smells/textures irritating. For example, if a child shares that the school blazer is irritating, the parents/carers can pass this on to the teachers.
3. Personalised Support 🎯
Every SEMH pupil is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Ongoing communication with parents allows teachers to tailor their approach, ensuring each child receives the personalised support they need.
Example: What worked for CYP one week might not work in the next week. If the school was using a CYP favourite sports/film to help engage them and this suddenly changes, parents/carers need to pass this information on.
4. Early Intervention 🕛
Parents often spot potential issues before they escalate. By maintaining open lines of communication, teachers can address these concerns early, preventing bigger challenges down the road.
Example: CYP will often share frustrations first with parents/carers. For example, if another young person has started to target them. Or if they are particularly struggling with a specific topic.
5. Building Trust 🧗
Trust between teachers and parents is essential. When parents see that teachers are genuinely invested in their child’s well-being, it fosters a collaborative and trusting relationship.
Example: If CYP see that parents/carers and the teaching staff trust each other and are working together to support them. They will be more likely to open up to both parties. A weekly phone call home or email to parents/carers is a great way to build this trust.
6. Celebrating Successes 🏅
Celebrating even small victories together sends a powerful message to SEMH pupils. They are supported by a team that believes in them.
Example: Teaching staff use postcards home or certificates to celebrate achievements in school. Parents/carers celebrate these by putting them on the fridge/framing them. This encourages the CYP to keep achieving in school.
7. Cultivating Empathy ❤️
Understanding a child's emotional landscape is key to providing effective support. Regular communication with parents enhances a teacher’s ability to create a compassionate and nurturing learning environment.
Example: Parents/carers share regulation techniques that work for the CYP. The teaching staff then implement these. For example, access to colouring resources.
8. It Takes a Village 🏘️
The saying "It takes a village to raise a child" is especially true for SEMH pupils. By working together, teachers and parents form a crucial part of that village, providing the guidance and support needed for these children to thrive.
Example: If parents/carers and teachers use all the tips above. The CYP should feel supported and cared for. Hopefully, this will have a positive impact on the school journey.
In summary, strong communication with parents is vital in teaching SEMH pupils. It turns challenges into opportunities and fosters an environment where these students can succeed.