What does it mean to ‘partner’ with your child’s school?
As a parent you are the very first educator of your child, and have had a huge influence on their learning since birth. For the next phase, when your child begins school, you will need to team up with the school and your child’s teachers.
By developing a good relationship with the school and your child’s teachers you send powerful positive messages to your child about the importance of school and learning.
Evidence – Did you know?
- A fathers’ involvement in a child’s education has a strong influence on children getting high grades as well as on the child’s attitude to learning.
- Children with fathers who have very high parental consistency from the age of 4 to 12, perform better in reading and writing.
- Children do better in school when their fathers are involved in their school, regardless of whether their fathers live with them or live apart.
Top tips
- Introduce yourself to the teacher at the beginning of each year.
- Don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher. They like to get to really know your child through your eyes as well.
- Attend the class parent meeting at the beginning of the year to find out about the teacher’s goals, expectations, rules and limits. (If there is no arranged meeting, arrange to see the teacher yourself).
- Work together with the teachers and the school to support your child academically, emotionally and socially.
- If you are called in about a problem, be open to the situation and partner with the teacher to find solutions that are best for your child.
- Remember both you and the school want the best for your child, so you need to work together to find the best strategies and actions.
Dr Bruce Robinson is the founder of The Fathering Project – see more from Bruce.
If you or your children are struggling:
Kids can call Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 or Youth Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or you can contact your child’s GP. If you are struggling, call Lifeline on 131 114, or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
