40 Things Your Child’s Teacher Wants You to Know
Updated: Apr. 06, 2023
A look inside a teacher's mind could help you understand lesson plans and maybe even guide your child to perform better.
Their homework isn’t going to look the same as yours
Teaching methods have changed a lot over the years, so don’t be shocked when your child’s homework looks unfamiliar to you. Don’t tell them not to use a certain math strategy just because you learned something different. Do research or reach out to your child’s teacher to familiarize yourself with newer methods so you can help when your child has a question.
Have your child keep a journal
It’s a good idea to have your child keep a journal from a young age. Have them draw pictures and jot down notes about their day. It’s a good way for students to reflect and set goals. It also serves as a safe place to process their emotions.
We have your child’s best interests in mind
If we make a call home or give your child a recommendation, it’s not to put them down, it’s to help them succeed. Most teachers have their students’ best interests in mind and will go out of their way to make sure they are helping them in any way they can.
Come back from vacations earlier
It’s never a good idea to send your kids back to school the day after a long flight. They’re wiped out and can’t function properly most of the time. Also, don’t schedule a vacation that runs into the first few days on the school year. It puts a lot of pressure on your child to play catch up once they get back and causes a lot of stress for both the student and teacher.
Play time is just as important as time in the classroom
Many parents don’t realize how much their kids are learning when they are playing with other kids. Play has many developmental benefits. Kids are learning social skills such as negotiation and communication, understanding their bodies, and learning through trial and error.
I’m not a marriage counselor
At parent-teacher conferences, let’s stick to your child’s progress, not how your husband doesn’t help you around the house. Your child’s principal also has a lot to say, these are the 22 things your child’s principal is secretly thinking.
We hate testing too
We’re sick of standardized testing and having to “teach to the test.” Here are a few reasons why kids hate school.
Technology has changed kids’ behavior (for the worse)
Kids used to go out and play after school and resolve problems on their own. Now, with computers and TV, they lack the skills to communicate. They don’t know how to get past hurt feelings without telling the teacher and having her fix it.
We notice your kid’s manners
When I hear a loud belch, I remember that a student’s manners are a reflection of his parents’.
Every kid is special… But…
Your child may be the center of your universe, but I have to share mine with 25 others. Make sure your child knows the 11 secret habits of straight-A students.
Why aren’t we compensated more?
Guys who dribble a ball for a couple of hours a game can make up to $20 million a year. We educate future leaders and make about $51,000 a year.
Want to get us a gift?
Please, no more mugs, frames, or stuffed animals. A gift card to Starbucks or Staples would be more than enough. A thank-you note: even better.
We don’t arrive at school ten minutes before your child does
And we don’t leave the minute they get back on the bus. Many of us put in extra hours before and after school.
Kids lie
The truth is simple: Your kid will lie to get out of trouble. Make yourself aware of the 12 things your school bus driver wish you knew.
Check their homework
Just because your child says he did his homework doesn’t mean it’s true. You must check. Every night.
We spend money out of our own pockets
Teachers often buy things our students need, such as school supplies and even shoes.
Academics aren’t everything
Success is not achieved by just making kids memorize flashcards and prepping them for an Ivy League school. Sensible parents know there is a college for every kid and responsibility and good citizenship are what really drive success.
Let your kids make mistakes
We know you mean well, but please stop doing everything for your child and allow them to make mistakes. How else will they learn? Kids are not motivated to succeed because they feel their parents will bail them out every time.
Good kids make all the difference
There are days when I just want to quit. But then that one smile from that one kid changes it all. If you need even more of a reason to love teachers, read these stories about amazing teachers that changed their student’s lives.
