3 Proactive Strategies to Avoid the Scary November Teacher Call

November can be a nerve-wracking month for parents. The fall semester is in full swing, and teachers have had enough time to assess students' progress. The dreaded teacher call might be looming on the horizon, but fear not! By implementing a few proactive strategies, you can ensure that November remains a stress-free month.

Strategy #1: Ask your child's teacher how you can support learning at home.

Communication is key when it comes to your child's education. Teachers appreciate parents who are actively involved in their child's learning journey. Reach out to your child's teacher and ask how you can support their education at home. Teachers often have valuable insights into a child's strengths and weaknesses, and they can recommend resources, study techniques, or additional practice that can make a significant difference. By working as a team, you can help your child excel in their studies and prevent any surprises come November.

Strategy #2: Ask your child how they're feeling in school.

Your child's feelings about school matter. Take the time to sit down with them and have an open and honest conversation about their school experience. Are they understanding the concepts being taught? Is there a particular subject or topic they are struggling with? Encourage them to express their thoughts and concerns. By doing this, you create a safe space for your child to share any challenges they might be facing, allowing you to address issues early on and potentially avoid the need for a concerning teacher call later.

Strategy #3: Create time and space in your child's life to prioritize practicing concepts taught in school.

Consistency is crucial when it comes to learning. Ensure that your child has dedicated time and a quiet, distraction-free space at home to practice and reinforce what they've learned in school. This might involve helping with homework, engaging in educational activities, or simply encouraging them to read regularly. When you make learning a priority at home, you empower your child to succeed in school, making it less likely that you'll receive a worrisome call from the teacher.

November doesn't have to be a scary month for parents. By proactively engaging with your child's education, communicating with their teacher, and fostering a positive learning environment at home, you can set your child up for success and reduce the chances of those unsettling teacher calls. Remember, a little proactive effort can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and productive school year for your child.

Mme Michelle is an Instructional Resource Teacher in St. John’s, Newfoundland and is passionate about helping students with diverse needs thrive at school and in the real world. She started French For Life in 2012 with the goal of helping French Immersion students get the support they need to become bilingual, despite academic challenges. Interested in learning more about French For Life virtual or in-person tutoring? Contact michelle@frenchforlife.com.