There are different perspectives on how becoming a parent influences ones' teaching style and ability. For me becoming a father deeply changed how I viewed the relationships that define my professional experience. My interactions with my students' parents changed dramatically. I'm able to see that each time I talk to a parent about their child, I am speaking about the most important thing in their lives.
Often the parent can feel challenged by language or innuendo, and can take criticism that is too harsh as a reflection on themselves.
Talking With Parents and Guardians
When talking with other parents and teachers who also have kids, homework always joins the conversation. These conversations have had a major impact on how I utilize this aspect of the school experience. I still give traditional homework assignments, but will always give one week (seven days) to complete. There are no twenty four hour assignments! I know from my own experience as well as anecdotally from others that many times there are mitigating factors that prohibit these assignments from being completed. Or worse these short term assignments cause so much strife and agitation that the entire family unit is turned against the schooling process.When talking about student progress remember that the child you are talking about is someone's hope and joy-the center of their universe! Don't be overly negative and always stick to the facts never making inferences. This is especially important to keep the parent on your side which is essential in getting any positive responses from your discussion.
Interacting With Students
I have become much more kind and compassionate in all my discussions and conversations. My children show many moods and allows me the opportunity to see their causes. Many times hunger, lack of sleep, or even having to go to the bathroom can manifest itself in poor behavior and moodiness. Understanding and accepting this allows for a kinder more thoughtful response. Translating this understanding to the classroom improves morale allowing for better educational relationships. Some basic keys that I follow are:- Speak softly at all times, never raise your voice for any reason. This way you won't artificially create a confrontational situation.
- Don't talk too much about events that are really far in the future. Often making this mistake just adds confusion later. For example details about the end of the school year (unless its tomorrow or next week).
- Always smile! This is the case even if you are having a bad day, its no one else's problem, so they shouldn't have to deal with a grouch!