In undergrad, the education dept. gives teachers insight to how to appropriately deal with families from different backgrounds to parents who are just difficult. Unfortunately, some of those tactics can only go so far. I learned through hands on experience how to really communicate with the families that I work with. I had to realize for myself that not all parents are just thinking about what is best for their child. Though there are only a select few who operate this way, the demands can really ruin your day. So my first strategy is to calm them with kindness. Dealing with frustrated parents has hurt my feelings many times, but when I look at their perspective, they are reacting to hurt as well.
When communicating with children, there are many different strategies to employ. It depends on if the child is sensitive, aggressive, a go getter, a child that refuses to try things by his or herself or if the student has never encountered a specific situation before. I have received about 3 new students in the past month. This is difficult in Pre-k because when they come in most know little to nothing about self-regulation and academic information. I have really had to adjust my mindset and approach when going all the way back to September information about information, like colors and drawing a picture. In this situation patience is a virtue.
When communicating with co-workers and professionals, it is important that my tone is calm and understanding. It is imperative that professionals sense an open mind. Many people have many different views on certain topics but sometimes as a educator you have to know when to speak up and when not to. It is a finesse to understand how to work the system. Sometimes you have to play the game, instead of always trying to make your voice heard when no one wants to listen.
Alyssa,
ReplyDeleteYou are absolutely right about not all strategies work when you are dealing with families. I love you motto of keep them calm with kindness. I think saying that tor yourself also keeps you calm!
Alyssa, I agree that calming with kindness is a great way to defuse a tense moment. Patience is also key! It can be hard to consider another person's perspective in the heat of the moment, but in doing so, the first steps toward reaching a mutual understanding are taken. It sounds like you have a strong sense of what is needed to develop good communication and relationships with parents.
ReplyDeleteAlyssa,
ReplyDeleteWhen we interact with families, they will generalize teacher/parent communications to be similar to teacher /child communications. Consequently, if we are kind and responsive with families they will understand that we are acting in best interest of their child. Alternatively, if we are rushed or pointed in our communication, they will also presume that that is how their child is treated.
Alyssa,
ReplyDeleteBeing calm and understanding is always important when dealing with children and their families. I agree that sometimes we are not aware of what they are going through until they open up and communicate with us. Having hands on experiences are sometimes better than strategies. Great Post!