by Elaine Sihera

Created on: December 02, 2009   Last Updated: December 25, 2009

Education of students is a three way partnership between the parent, the student and the teacher/establishment. Where this partnership is weak in any respect, the relationship between student and teacher will suffer in the long term and puts a strain on the relationship. Obviously, both parent and teacher desire the best for the student, but only by working in close partnership together, by mutually reinforcing each other and by the parent becoming involved in the student's education, can the best results be achieved. In order to do this, both teacher and parent would build a supportive base for the student which should lead to more positive student-teacher connections. This can be achieved through the following useful tips relating to essential aspects of the partnership.

1. Environment

The best student-teacher relationships actually begin in the home where parents try to reinforce whatever the school deems necessary for the development and achievement of their child. In order to achieve that symmetry in working together for the student's benefit, parents should strive to provide a relaxed learning atmosphere at home where shared values regarding education can find expression in the student's activities. The right environment would be one where there is respect for both parental and educational authority, trust in the school's professionalism and expertise and student feels confident to talk about their problems or concerns. The main thing for every parent to remember is that only by affirming and reinforcing what the teacher is doing, and encouraging the student to constantly comply with that and do their best, can there be an alignment of mutual goals which would strengthen the relationship between the student and the teacher.

For example, the following activities should help parents provide the right supportive environment:

a. Clarifying what the student should be learning from the outset as they would be able to reinforce the requirements.

c. Encouraging daily reading and scheduled times for homework;

d. Making sure that the student attends school, daily and on time

e. Providing a good breakfast for the child and ensuring they carry all the appropriate materials. The student is then prepared to learn both physically and emotionally.

f. Spend some regular time talking with the student about his/her school endeavours - and providing support and encouragement for what they aspire to, and whatever they are learning and experiencing.

g Above all, parents

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