How to Effectively Communicate with Teachers about Extracurricular Activities

Whether it’s the arts or athletics, when your child participates in extracurricular activities, there are bound to be additional responsibilities and scheduling conflicts that arise. Maybe it’s an away game that makes them miss the last half of the school day or perhaps there are issues with grades—whatever the case, having open and effective communication with teachers is crucial for the success of your student.

It’s always difficult to navigate your way through your child’s schooling. As parents, it’s our job to protect the character of our kids and establish a clear line of communication with their teachers, but it’s also our job to teach our kids, especially our high schoolers, how to effectively communicate with their teachers. Here are some tips on creating healthy, open dialogue that can benefit your kids.

Honesty is the Best Policy

If your child is struggling, don’t suffer in silence. Whether they’re the star athlete or an extra in this year’s school play, acknowledging struggles and seeking help is the best strategy for success—in and out of the classroom. Don’t want until the coach has to bench your student before communicating with their teacher.

To communicate with their teacher, you have to have communication at home. I know it’s easy to praise them for their performance and focus on their achievements, but go deeper in your discussions. Ask about their school work, ask what their most difficult subject is, ask if they’re turning in their homework. When you can have an honest conversation, you can better handle difficult conversations.

Stay Calm, Cool, & Collected

When you or your child is communicating with their teacher, remember the three C’s—calm, cool, collected. Go into each conversation with their teachers with a purpose and a game plan. Teach your kids to do the same. Be respectful, be honest, and be kind. When you have the right attitude, the conversation will go much better.

Communication is hard for anyone, but to think of our freshmen and sophomores having to learn the responsibility of communicating with their teachers is especially difficult. Teach your kids to think before they speak. When everyone takes a moment to collect their thoughts and remain honest, a healthy bond is established between parents, students, and teachers.