Effective communication of teachers with parents/ guardians to establish teacher/parent joint actions

By Theodora Avraam- CSICY – International Research & Development Center

Effective communication between teachers and parents/guardians is crucial for fostering a safe and supportive environment for children, particularly in navigating online risks, such as Cyberbullying and Internet addiction. By fostering a culture of open dialogue and mutual support, both parties can create a solid framework for addressing the challenges of the digital age and establish consistent strategies to support children’s well-being and safety.

The importance of mutual understanding

Establishing open and respectful communication channels ensures that both teachers and parents/guardians are aligned in their approach to addressing online safety. Mutual understanding fosters trust and provides a unified front to address behavioral concerns and the developmental needs of children. Research highlights that parental involvement in school activities correlates with improved student outcomes, including better emotional regulation and reduced risk of negative online experiences (Epstein, 2018).

Specific methods to enhance mutual understanding include:

• Communication apps: Tools like “ClassDojo” or “Remind” enable real-time updates and feedback, creating an accessible platform for teachers to share classroom insights and for parents/ guardians to raise questions or concerns.
• Structured communication plans: These plans clarify expectations through weekly updates or progress reports. For example, a shared digital calendar highlighting school activities and safety workshops keeps both parties informed and engaged.
• Practical communication strategies:
• Regular updates: Teachers can send newsletters or emails summarizing key classroom discussions on online safety. Parents/guardians can reciprocate by sharing insights about their child’s online habits at home, helping teachers identify any concerns early.
• Scheduled meetings: Regular parent-teacher meetings provide opportunities to discuss potential issues such as cyberbullying or excessive screen time. Empathy should be at the core of these discussions to ensure mutual understanding and productive outcomes.
• Empathic Active Listening: Both parties should practice listening with the intention to understand rather than respond. Empathic listening opens a dialogue about the challenges children face online, fostering collaboration.

Collaborative actions:

• Joint workshops: Organize workshops to educate both parents and teachers on recognizing signs of Internet addiction or Cyberbullying. Practical demonstrations and expert-led sessions can enlighten and empower participants to take action.
• Action plans: Co-develop plans to handle specific online safety issues. For instance, creating consistent rules for internet usage both at home and school can help children understand expectations and build healthy digital habits. A unified approach reinforces these boundaries, making them more effective. 

By prioritizing effective communication and joint actions, educators and parents/guardians can provide children with a strong support system to navigate the digital world safely. This collaboration is essential as cyber risks evolve, ensuring children grow up with the tools and guidance they need to thrive in an increasingly digital landscape. Taking proactive steps today can significantly influence the safety and well-being of children in the future.

References:

Epstein, J. L. (2018). School, Family, and Community Partnerships: Preparing Educators and Improving Schools. Routledge.

Livingstone, S., & Helsper, E. J. (2008). Parental mediation of children’s internet use. Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, 52(4), 581-599.