Finally... a book for parents that makes "getting on" with teachers easy. Anna has written an easy-to-read booklet that will help parents work with teachers in a more productive way.
Anna has been working with teachers and students with Autism Spectrum Disorder for many years. She provides training for a national training organisation as well as inservices to schools, parents and support agencies.
Contents
- Introduction
- Communication
- Reflective Listening
- Communication Book
- Attitude
- Negotiating with Teachers
- Being Assertive not Aggressive
- If All Else Fails – Preparing for Confrontation
- Rules to Use in a Win/Win Situation
- Strategies for Working with Teachers
- Supporting the Teacher
- Conclusion
Excerpt:
Strategies for Working with Teachers
Following are some points to bear in mind when you are working with teachers:
- Be open about your needs and your child’s needs.
- Remember that, as with most people, teachers may be great with children and relate to them well, but may be unable to relate as well to parents.
- It’s important to listen to their point of view as well as letting them know where you stand.
- Agree with them from time to time and be empathetic.
- Look for common ground and then bring the conversation around to what you want talk about.
- Avoid criticism of the teacher. Just as we are sensitive about our parenting skills they are just as sensitive to their teaching skills.
- Try to approach them without antagonism.
- Acknowledge the difficult periods at home as well as at school.
- If possible avoid direct confrontation.
- Allow time for mutual trust to develop between you and the teacher.