Your child is under the care and guidance of another adult for at least seven hours per day, five days a week, during the school year. Imagine the impact this person is having on your child’s life. What a significant place that adult holds in your child’s world? Do you know this person?

It is vital that open, frequent communication occurs between you and your child’s teacher. Parental involvement in school is key for all students’ success, but even more so for a FastBraiin child.

FastBraiin children require more boundaries. The faster they understand that their teacher and parent have open communication and are partners with them, the faster the child will jump on board and shine as a student.

You can do it! It is the responsibility of both the parent and teacher. Take the first step and reach out with a friendly email. It is important to be positive and understand that the school and the teacher care about your child. It might be helpful if teachers know some of the “little insights" that make up your child’s style and behavior.

Schedule a meeting when a time is convenient for him or her and don’t expect that “stopping in” before or after school is the best time to meet. Let your child’s teacher know you appreciate them whenever or however you can. Don’t underestimate how motivating a little kindness and support can be. Volunteer your time and resources. Becoming invested and partnering with the school may be the best way to help your child be successful.

If a road block should occur, or it seems your school or teacher is not open to this, don’t worry or panic. You are in control. Contact them.

Begin with a note or email but stick to the facts. Leave the emotion filled words and accusatory statements aside. Address issues positively and use “I” statements such as, “I am slightly confused over your homework policy, could you please explain it to me?” or “I would love to hear your perspective on what happened in class yesterday.” Using the “I” statements can help to keep the teacher from feeling attacked and on the defensive, and allows for a discussion of solutions. If you feel that your interaction with the teacher is not productive, a good next step is to ask for the assistance of the guidance counselor.

The counselor can serve as a liaison between the teacher and parent if necessary.

Remember, this is your child, and your child’s education. The partnership you develop with your child’s teacher can greatly impact his or her success.

You need your child’s teacher. Your child’s teacher needs you.