Between my 5 kids, we’ve had almost 50 different teachers. That includes daycare, elementary school, and middle school so far. Their teachers have all been very different, but had one thing in common – they all needed our support. It hasn’t taken me long to realize that supporting the teachers ultimately contributes to the success of my children.
With National Teacher Appreciation Week coming up soon, a lot of parents are thinking of ways to show teachers some love. But, supporting your child’s teachers shouldn’t just come in the form of a one-time gift. Teachers need support all year long.
After talking to a lot different teachers, these were the top things they want parents to do:
Stay involved
As a working mom, it‘s tough for me to chaperone every field trip, volunteer in the classroom, or be on the PTA board at my kids’ schools. But I know it’s so important for my kids’ teachers to know that I’m involved and invested in their success. I encourage you to introduce yourself to the teacher, send a quick e-mail, schedule a conference. Do all of this early in the school year to be sure the teacher knows you’re there.
Throughout the school year, check your child’s book bag and folders for any papers the teacher sends home. Sign and return the things that need to be sent back. Respond to any messages that the teacher may send. I try to take 5-10 minutes at night to do this on a regular basis (I admit, some nights I forget – I’m not perfect!). I know as a Pediatrician, if I have a plan for one of my young patients, nothing can get done without the parent’s help. The same goes for teachers. They really rely on our involvement!
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Have the teacher’s back
Far too often, when something happens in the classroom and a child has done something wrong, parents take the child’s side instead of understanding the teacher’s point of view. This is a complete change in parenting nowadays, because I know that if I were to ever get in trouble in the classroom as a young child, my parents would be coming after me, not the teacher! I encourage all parents to truly listen to your child’s teacher (whether you agree with them or not!). Believe it or not, your child can be wrong! The good teachers have your child’s best interest at heart and only want to see them succeed. But they need our support and understanding to do that.
Support the classroom financially
Everyone knows that teachers are likely the most underpaid profession in our country. They spend at least 6 hours every weekday pouring into our children in the classroom – not including the time for planning and grading papers. They have the future of our country in their hands, yet they, unfortunately, don’t have paychecks that reflect the importance of their roles. While they may receive some funds for their classrooms from their schools, most of the teachers I know spend a lot of their own money on supplies and teaching aids for their classrooms. That’s why, without hesitation, if one of my kids teachers ask for something for their classroom, I gladly provide it! I encourage you to do the same whenever possible.
Let them know they’re appreciated
Throughout the school year, we try our best to make sure the teachers in our lives know they’re appreciated. Even if my kids didn’t “love” their teachers that particular school year, we still give them gifts of appreciation for all of the hard work they’ve put in. We try to donate items from their “wish lists” at the beginning of the school year, give Christmas/Hanukkah and Valentine’s Day gifts, and Teacher Appreciation gifts near the end of the school year. Last year, we gave Classroom Supply Baskets to all of our kids’ teachers – even the middle school ones! They were a big hit, and I would recommend them for any of your child’s teachers. I’m all about being practical! Appreciation doesn’t always have to involve physical gifts. A quick hand-written note or e-mail every now and then can let your child’s teacher know how much they’re appreciated!
My children have been shaped by so many excellent teachers, who I am so grateful for. Teaching’s not an easy or glorious profession, and I give tons of props to those who have chosen it. I encourage you to never get too busy to support your child’s teacher. You may not be able to support with a ton of time or money, but find small ways to let the teachers in your child’s life know that you’re there. Remember, supporting the teacher ultimately supports your child, and helps to ensure their success! If you’re a teacher, keep doing an awesome job! Your work isn’t in vain.
How about you?
What other ideas do you have for supporting your child’s teachers? Or if you’re a teacher, how would you love for parents to show their support? Leave your ideas in the comments below!
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