1. Encourage Family Involvement and Participation
1.1. After school programs
1.2. Volunteer services
1.2.1. Keep parents up to date with various activities and volunteer opportunities at the school so that they have the option to participate in their child's school environment. This may provide the student extra reinforcement and allow them to participate more frequently in school social events.
1.3. School work intervention at home
1.3.1. Encourage parents to check in their child and provide additional support while they complete assignments. This way there is intervention in and out of the classroom.
2. Recognizing Cultural Similarities and Differences
2.1. Language
2.1.1. Different forms of communication may also produce and provide new context to a specific issue at hand.
2.2. Culture
2.2.1. Recognizing diversity in the classroom can be a huge advantage in maintaining a good relationship with the child and the parent. Understanding the differences in cultural backgrounds may give teachers a new perspective on the child's behaviour.
2.3. Principles and Beliefs
3. Empathy
3.1. Home atmosphere and environment
3.1.1. Several class members have mentioned this, but I think practicing empathy is very important when trying to understand the role of the family. I do not have children and can never say that I know how it feels when taking care of a child with special needs. Its important to listen carefully to what the parent wants for their child and then finding a balance between classroom expectations and real life expectations.
4. Open Communication
4.1. Parent Teacher
4.2. Continual check ins
4.3. Transparency with student academic and behavioural progress
5. Provide Information to Additional Support Systems
5.1. Guidance counselling, Spec Ed teacher
5.1.1. I would encourage parents to seek out additional resources and staff that are trained in the school. There are individuals that may be far more qualified in the field and can provide valuable insight to both the parent and the teacher.
5.2. Mental health programs
5.2.1. Seeking additional resources outside of the school for parents can also be something that will alleviate any questions or inquiries parents may have.