No parent likes hearing that there is a problem at school. But the way you react can make the difference between helping solve the problem and standing in the way of a solution.
Are you helping address school problems positively? Answer yes or no to each question below to find out:
___1. Do you listen to the teacher when she contacts you before you start explaining away your child's behavior? Getting defensive won't build cooperation.
___2. Do you wait to discuss the issue with your child until you can do so calmly and without anger?
___3. Do you involve your child in developing a solution to the problem?
___4. Do you let the teacher know how you plan to handle the problem?
___5. Do you stay in touch with the teacher and the school to see if your solution is working?
How well are you doing?
Each yes means you are trying to solve problems in positive ways. For each no answer, try that idea.
Reprinted with permission from the January 2011 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Elementary School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2011 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc.