MSI Press Blog

  What Makes for Good Parent–Teacher Communication Parent–teacher communication is one of those phrases everyone nods along to, but few people define. We say it matters. We say it builds trust. We say it supports kids. But what actually makes it good? After years of watching schools from the inside and the outside — as a parent, a collaborator, and a partner in learning — I’ve come to believe that good communication isn’t about frequency or formality. It’s about relationship . And relationships are built on a few simple, human principles. 1. Clarity Over Volume More messages don’t equal better communication. What families need is: clear information in plain language at the right time with the right level of detail A weekly newsletter no one reads doesn’t help. A two-sentence email that says what’s happening and what’s needed often does. 2. Respect for Each Other’s Expertise Teachers know the classroom. Parents know the child. Good communication honors both truths. It...

  Today's tip for parents from two talented teachers comes from  365 Teacher Secrets for Parents  by Cindy McKinley Alder and Patti Trombly. #36 Communicate with the Teacher, Too!   Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you .~Ralph Waldo Emerson               Keeping up good communication with your child is essential, but chances are you will find that it may not be all that you need. Situations will surely arise that require talking to the teacher. Don’t ever let this intimidate you! Your child’s teacher wants what is best for her students and therefore wants and needs to know your questions and concerns. If you have a few quick questions, perhaps jotting them down in a note or email would be the best approach. Chances are, conferences or a curriculum night are just around the corner and in-depth questions can be brought up and answered then. Teachers appreciate written communication becaus...

Today's tip for parents (from two talented teachers) comes from  365 Teacher Secrets for Parents  by Cindy McKinley Alder and Patti Trombly (yes, those are the two talented teachers). #20 “Hidden Treasure!”   An accomplishment sticks to a person. ~Japenese proverb   Learn how to play Hidden Treasure! In a never-ending effort to make learning fun, we have created this game to be used with just about any area of the curriculum to help kids learn reading words, spelling words, definitions, and more. We haven't met a kid yet who didn't like to play (and beat us at) it!   Basic play consists of theses few steps: 1. Gather some note cards, a box, and two different kinds of counters (pennies and dimes work great!). 2. Write all words to be learned on index cards. Also create a few that say "Treasure!" 3. Place all cards in a box, mixed up, upside down. Take turns drawing a card and reading/spelling/defining it. 4. If the person gets it right, she earns a counter worth ...