Relationships in general are vital to human existence. When a child is thrown into the middle of a relationship that adds another vital element to the importance of the relationship. Then add a child with special needs and BAM you have one of the most important factors in determining the importance of a parent-teacher relationship. It is not about the parent or the teacher, it is about what is best for the child. Parent-teacher relationships in special education can be the key factor to the success or failure of a child with special needs. Just think about how you feel when you have more people on your side, pushing you to do your best; that is what a child with special needs feels when all the important people in their lives are in sync with one another. So now do you think that parent-teacher relationships in special education are important?
Here are some things parents and teachers can do to create and/or improve a great relationship-
- COMMUNICATE often. Any detail that you would want to know, communicate to the other.
- Instead of arguing have a mature discussion. Falling outs happen, that is part of relationship. Work together to fix them.
- If something bothers you, resolve it or work around it.
- Include the child as often as possible. It is their education, their life; include them.
-ALWAYS remember it is about what is best for the child with special needs, not the parent or the teacher.
-BE OPEN. Everyone has different experiences, different strengths and weaknesses. Learn from one another.
-RESPECT one another. Truthfully follow the golden rule.
If more parents and teachers were willing to put forth the effort to create a strong, positive relationship; the possibilities for the child are endless. The parent and teacher are the outer casing of the relationship and the child is smack dab in the center.
Here are some things parents and teachers can do to create and/or improve a great relationship-
- COMMUNICATE often. Any detail that you would want to know, communicate to the other.
- Instead of arguing have a mature discussion. Falling outs happen, that is part of relationship. Work together to fix them.
- If something bothers you, resolve it or work around it.
- Include the child as often as possible. It is their education, their life; include them.
-ALWAYS remember it is about what is best for the child with special needs, not the parent or the teacher.
-BE OPEN. Everyone has different experiences, different strengths and weaknesses. Learn from one another.
-RESPECT one another. Truthfully follow the golden rule.
If more parents and teachers were willing to put forth the effort to create a strong, positive relationship; the possibilities for the child are endless. The parent and teacher are the outer casing of the relationship and the child is smack dab in the center.