TIPS FOR PARENTS ON COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY
WITH THE SCHOOL
When it comes to providing appropriate services for students with disabilities, the need for parents, schools, and educators to establish effective communication is extremely important. Poor communication can result in students not receiving the services they need, or perhaps not progressing in school like they should. Therefore, parents and school personnel need to commit themselves to improving their communication skills.
The following tips are taken from an article by the Consortium for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education, or CADRE:
- Think about your “emotional pressure gauge” as you work or prepare to work with the school on matters that are important to you and your child. CADRE suggests, “Keep thoughts of past (or present) problems at school, worst fears, and other negatives from creeping into your mind. Focus positively on your goals and the view that the school wants to do their best for your child. Keep telling yourself that you and your child will succeed.”
- Actively listen to school personnel with a desire to understand their point of view.
- Clarify your statements if you see that someone is confused about what you are saying. Ask for clarification in return.
- Have options in mind and offer them for discussion.
- Remember that you and others are only human. Acknowledge the contributions of school personnel and any progress that has been made. You can help to “sweeten the air a bit” at a time when frustrations are rising. Say you’re sorry if you think you might have hurt someone. This “helps to humanize what is often a formal process and sends the message that you can be forgiving of others’ mistakes.” It may sound funny, but “please” and “thank you” really make a difference.
Finally, ask for the “yes.” When you are not in full agreement on how to address an issue, restate and discuss options. Examine proposed solutions, then directly and politely ask for what you want or ask why it is not possible.
Tips Fall 05 INDEPENDENCE