When you’re teaching English to young learners, whether in a language school, a state school, or on a private basis, the link between home and school is vital. A strong relationship with parents supports children’s progress and makes your job as a teacher much easier.
If you take the time and effort to build a positive relationship at the beginning of the school year (or when you first meet the children and their parents in private teaching), parents will value it, and the children in your class will benefit too.
So, how do you build that relationship? Here are five practical ways:
1. Communicate clearly and often
Communication is so important – I can’t stress this enough! Whenever possible, try to meet parents before a child joins your class. Depending on your teaching context, this might be a half-hour meeting, a five-minute chat, or even just a quick hello. However brief, that first contact breaks the ice and opens the door to ongoing communication. Miss it, and it’s harder to establish a connection later.
If you have more time in that first meeting, take notes and show interest in the child in a holistic way: their character, interests, and needs. Ask about allergies or other important information (while making sure this kind of information is properly documented with the school’s administration too).
After this first meeting, take the chance to talk to parents at the end of the class or whenever you need to. Often just a few words when they come to collect their child is enough for parents. You can also use a home/school book and write a few words or important messages. The child can take this home with them for their parents to see.
If a parent approaches you just as you’re starting a lesson, politely let them know you need to begin (unless it’s urgent) and arrange another time to talk. That way, the lesson stays on track while parents still feel heard.
Remember, the communication link works both ways – parents may have important insights to share with you as well, for example if their child is worried or struggling to express something in class.
2. Share what children are learning
It’s a good idea to keep parents in the loop about what their child is learning each week. You could send a short email or note, use a home/school book, or post information on a noticeboard outside the classroom.
This not only reassures parents but also helps manage expectations. Sometimes parents expect progress that isn’t developmentally realistic. Seeing the weekly plan allows for conversation and helps prevent misunderstandings.
Many parents want to support learning at home, so give them some tips and simple ideas – games, short activities or songs – that build on what you’ve done in class.
3. Be open and honest
If you don’t know the answer to a parent’s question, say so honestly, and explain you’ll find out. Parents appreciate transparency. Likewise, don’t be afraid to tell parents about misbehaviour (although be sure to respect the school’s policy on this). Addressing issues early can prevent them from becoming bigger down the line. Make sure the child has a voice in these situations, which might mean arranging a translator if needed.
Looking for ready-made Young Learner lesson plans? Have a look at our Resource Packs:
4. Let children take work home
When the children have been creative during a lesson, let them take things home. This allows them to celebrate their achievements, and is an indirect way for the parents to learn more about the creative activities you do in class. Children are also more likely to use English to explain their work at home if they’re excited about it.
5. Reassure parents
Remind parents that even if their child isn’t speaking English at home (or even in class), they are still absorbing the language and everything going on around them. Children go through what’s called a silent period, which is a normal stage in the process of learning a second language – the silence does not equate to not learning. Avoid pushing them to speak before they’re ready – when they feel comfortable, speech will come naturally.
Extra points to remember
Some teachers feel nervous about talking with parents, worried about being judged. In reality, parents usually just want the best for their child and often welcome tips on supporting learning at home. Take their questions as a sign of interest, not criticism.
If a parent doesn’t speak or understand English and you don’t speak their language, find someone who is willing to translate for you. It’s more professional than relying on other parents or friends, and helps everyone feel confident that messages are clear and accurate.
Final thoughts
Teaching young learners is always a partnership between school and home. Whether it’s a wave at the door, a short note in a book, or a longer meeting at the start of the year, every effort you make to connect with parents will benefit the children you teach. Think of parents as partners and allies, and work with them as closely as your teaching situation allows.
What strategies have you used to build positive parent-teacher relationships? Share your experiences in the comments below.
