A New Parent’s POV: Building Strong Parent-Teacher Relationships
As a parent of a 2-year-old and a newborn, I recognize the profound importance of building strong, positive relationships with the educators who influence my children’s lives. These formative years are crucial, and the habits and practices we establish now will serve as the foundation for successful partnerships with teachers as my children grow.
This was top of mind when reading a recent post on Moreland University’s blog about Building Strong Parent-Teacher Relationships in the 2024-2025 School Year, which shares practical strategies for educators in building positive, productive, and trusting relationships with parents. Reflecting on my experiences with my 2-year-old’s gymnastics and swim teachers, and preparing for their pre-school teacher, I can see the value in adopting these practices early on. But the job of building strong parent-teacher relationships isn’t just on the teacher; Parents have an important role to play as well.
In this post, I hope to add to the conversation by sharing a new parent’s perspective on the strategies for building strong parent-teacher relationships.

Starting with Positive Communication
Positive communication has been instrumental in building rapport with my 2-year-old’s teachers. For instance, after a gymnastics class, I make it a point to share any new skills my child has demonstrated at home, such as a newfound ability to balance on one foot. This not only builds trust with the gymnastics teacher but also reinforces my child’s accomplishments, creating a cycle of positive reinforcement that benefits everyone involved.
Including Student Voices
Incorporating my child’s experiences and achievements into our communications has been incredibly effective. When my 2-year-old made progress in swimming by blowing bubbles in the water for the first time, I shared this milestone with their swim teacher. This practice not only engaged the teacher but also showed them that I am actively involved and appreciative of their efforts. It also gave my child a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that their progress was recognized and celebrated both at home and in their swim class.

Meeting Teachers on Neutral Ground
Recognizing that not all interactions need to happen in a formal setting has helped build comfortable relationships with my child’s teachers. Informal chats during pick-up and drop-off times at gymnastics and swimming lessons have provided opportunities to connect and discuss my child’s progress in a relaxed atmosphere. These moments have been invaluable in breaking down barriers and creating a more open and trusting relationship.
Using Clear and Accessible Language
I have found that using clear and simple language when discussing my child’s development is crucial. For example, when talking with my child’s swim teacher about their comfort level in the water, I avoid technical jargon and focus on straightforward observations and questions. This ensures that we are on the same page and can work together effectively to support my child’s learning and development.
Approaching Conversations with Empathy
When addressing any concerns or sensitive topics with my child’s teachers, empathy and an open mind are key. Assuming the best intentions and focusing on collaborative solutions has helped build mutual respect and understanding. For instance, when discussing my child’s initial reluctance to participate in gymnastics activities, approaching the conversation with empathy allowed us to devise strategies together to encourage and support my child.
Being Authentic
Sharing a bit about myself and my interests with my child’s teachers has helped create a more relatable and approachable image. Discussing my own experiences and educational philosophy during casual conversations with the gymnastics and swim teachers has opened the door for deeper connections. This authenticity makes it easier for teachers to engage with me and share valuable insights about my child’s progress.
Preparing for Pre-School
As we prepare for my 2-year-old to start pre-school, these practices will continue to be essential. Establishing a strong, positive relationship with their pre-school teacher from the beginning will set the tone for a collaborative and supportive educational experience. By implementing these strategies, I aim to create a consistent and enriching learning environment for both of my children.
Conclusion
Building strong parent-teacher relationships requires effort, empathy, and clear communication. As a parent, starting early with these positive practices not only benefits my children’s current educational experiences but also sets the stage for continued success in the years to come. By fostering meaningful connections with teachers, whether in gymnastics, swimming, or pre-school, we create a supportive network that enhances student success and makes the educational journey a collaborative and enriching experience for everyone involved.