Teaming Up for Student Success: How Parents and Teachers Can Collaborate

When parents and teachers work together, children do better. They feel more supported, confident, and ready to learn. A strong partnership between home and school helps create a positive environment where every child can succeed.

Why It Matters?

Children thrive when the adults in their lives are working together. Collaboration between home and school:

● Creates consistency and clear communication between home and school

● Builds trust and strong relationships between families and educators

● Helps children feel safe, supported, and understood

● Improves behaviour, attendance, learning outcomes, and wellbeing

● Improves communication about learning needs, behaviours, and strengths

● Helps teachers better understand students’ needs

● Builds a positive, supportive learning environment

Tips for Parents

● Communicate early and often – Do not wait for a problem to arise. Share insights about your child’s strengths and needs, and what works well at home.

● Be open to feedback – Teachers bring a unique perspective from the classroom. Together, you can find practical solutions.

● Consider a communication journal - A communication journal is a simple way for parents and teachers to share quick notes or important information about your child. If you think this might be helpful, have a chat with your child’s teacher to see if it might be a good fit.

Tips for Teachers

● Make invitations welcoming and clear – Let families know they are welcome and valued.

● Offer flexible involvement – Vary activity times and provide alternatives for those who can’t attend in person.

● Create meaningful opportunities – Invite parents to participate in ways that support student learning.

● Use one-on-one conversations to build connection – These chats help build trust and boost parent confidence.

● Ask families for insights – Parents can offer valuable perspectives on their child’s strengths, needs, and goals.

Working Together: What It Might Look Like

● Joint problem-solving when challenges arise

● Clear goals that everyone understands

● Shared strategies between home and school (e.g. behaviour plans, visual supports)

● A united approach that helps the child feel safe and supported

A strong partnership between parents and teachers builds a foundation for students success, confidence, and a supportive school community.

References:

Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL). (2024). EStrengthening parent engagement to improve student outcomes. Retrieved from https://www.aitsl.edu.au