In the Ontario Ministry of Education's document entitled, "Shared Solutions" strategies and best practices for working with parents are outlined. While this document is specifically focused on the relationships between schools and parents of students with special needs, many of the tips and strategies are applicable to all. The document also provides some quick tear-out sheets teachers could use when working with parents.
Interestingly, the document recommends an 'inquiry' model for addressing concerns and seeking solutions to issues that arise. The document stresses the importance of building an open, positive environment where it is safe to ask questions as well as actively listening to what others have to say.
Having staff aware of strategies for addressing difficult situations or parents is also important, but often something that is not addressed in PD workshops. Learning how to diffuse a heated conversation or respond to a parent who is upset can go a long way to ensuring that positive relationships between home and school remain intact.
No comments:
Post a Comment