Communicating With Teachers

You struggle to communicate your child's needs to teachers effectively

Steps

Start positive: 'Thank you for supporting [child's name]. We'd love to work together'
Share what works at home: 'At home, they respond well to visual instructions'
Be specific about needs: 'They need 10 extra seconds to process a question'
Ask what the teacher has observed. They see a different side of your child
Agree on a communication method: a home-school diary, weekly email, or regular check-ins

What you need

Prepared notes, collaborative approach, regular communication channel

Why it works

Teachers want to help but they have 30 children and limited time. Specific, practical information — 'they need 10 seconds processing time' rather than 'they have ADHD' — gives teachers something they can act on immediately. A collaborative tone makes them an ally rather than an adversary.

Age guidance

Important at every school transition and at least once per year. The information you share should evolve as your child grows.

Real-world example

A parent emailed the new teacher a three-line summary: 'He needs extra time to process, works best with visual instructions, and gets overwhelmed in the lunch hall.' The teacher implemented all three on day one. Short, specific, actionable.

Troubleshooting

Teachers have 30 children. Keep your communication concise and specific
Frame needs as 'what helps' rather than 'what's wrong'. Teachers respond better to solutions
If one teacher doesn't engage, try the learning support coordinator or head teacher