Let’s be real for a second. As teachers, we know that dealing with parents isn’t always easy. Some days, it feels like families bring more complaints, demands, and frustrations than actual support. You’ve probably had moments where a parent’s critique made you question if they know how much you care about their child’s success. Sound familiar?
But here’s the thing—those same families have a massive impact on the children in our classrooms. Children bring so much of their home life into their school day, from their behavior and attitudes to how they approach learning and relationships. And like it or not, building a good relationship with families is worth it, not just for the child but also for making your job easier and, yes, even more fulfilling.
Why Bother with Family Engagement?
Think of it like this: parents are our students’ first teachers, setting up their values, attitudes, and even work habits long before they step into our classroom. These home influences shape how kids feel about school, how they deal with frustration, how they relate to the language you are teaching them, and how they relate to others. By bringing families on board and getting them to understand the “why” behind what we do, including our approach to language teaching, we set ourselves (and our students) up for a more successful school year.
And let’s face it, it’s tough to get anywhere when you’re constantly clashing with parents. When families and teachers are on the same team, kids feel it—and it shows in their engagement, behavior, and progress. So, let’s talk about how you can go from “frustration” to “collaboration” in your relationships with parents.
Start with Open Communication
One of the easiest ways to prevent misunderstandings with families is through open, regular communication. But here’s the catch—it’s got to be two-way. We’re not just talking about newsletters or classroom updates. We’re talking about real conversations, where parents can share their perspectives, joys, and concerns, and you can share yours.
Set up regular check-ins with families where you go beyond just reporting grades. Talk about how their child is doing socially, and emotionally, and, yes, in both languages. Show them what you are doing with the group in the class – let your educational theory and practice shine! Let them know you’re here not just to teach but to listen and work with them. When parents see you as an ally, they’re more likely to trust you and support your teaching goals – which in turn makes your life a lot easier!
It’s Not Just Involvement – It’s Engagement
There’s a difference between parental involvement (like attending school events) and parental engagement (being part of the learning process). Many parents are happy to help with homework or show up for events, but we need to go further. True engagement means they understand what’s happening in the classroom and feel empowered to help their child succeed at home or when you ask for their participation in class.
Try giving parents tips they can use or do at home to reinforce what you’re doing in class. It could be as simple as encouraging them to read with their children every day in any language or talk to them about their day – pushing for orality practice. Make it clear that what they do at home matters as much as what happens in the classroom.
Families Influence Behavior and Attitude – Use That to Your Advantage
We all know a kid whose behavior is a total mystery until you talk to their family, right? Maybe they’re a ball of energy because they don’t have a solid sleep routine, or maybe they’re struggling with anxiety because of changes at home. Families can provide so much context that helps us understand our students and with that knowledge, better respond to their needs in the classroom.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about a child’s home life (gently, of course). This insight can be a game-changer in how you approach that child in class. And when families see that you’re genuinely invested in their child’s whole experience, they’re more likely to respect and support you in your role – again, making your life a lot easier!
When You’re Not on the Same Page About Literacy
As bilingual teachers, we often run into situations where parents don’t fully “get” our approach to literacy. Maybe they think learning two languages is too much, or they’re worried that their child will fall behind in one language. Some families might be more traditional and want to stick to literacy practices from their own culture, while others might embrace new methods you’re bringing to the classroom.
Here’s where open discussion is key. Explain why your approach works and how it benefits their child’s overall development. Show them how biliteracy builds a bridge between languages and cultures and helps kids thrive in both. And remember, you don’t need to have every answer. But if you can talk about the research and show examples from the classroom, parents will be more open to seeing things from your perspective.
Overcoming Resource Gaps Together
We’ve all been there—trying to find bilingual books, games, or even just posters in the target language. And parents notice when resources are lacking. Instead of letting this become a point of tension, make it an opportunity to involve families. Can they donate books, objects for your realia box, or help find digital resources, or maybe bring in materials from their own supply?
Invite families to contribute to the classroom in small ways. Even if they’re not physically in the classroom, they can still support their child’s learning by helping build a rich, bilingual environment. When families feel like partners in the process, they’re more invested in your goals as a bilingual teacher.
Professional Development Isn’t Just for Us
Finally, let’s not forget that parents often need support, too. Many of them are new to the concept of bilingual education and may have misconceptions. Take opportunities to share what you know about bilingualism with them. Invite them to school workshops or provide resources so they can learn more about the benefits of raising bilingual kids. How about one of our blog posts?
The more informed parents are, the better equipped they are to support their child’s education at home. And the better your relationship with families, the smoother things will go in the classroom. It’s about creating a community where everyone’s working toward the same goal.
Final Thoughts: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
At the end of the day, building a positive family-school relationship takes time, patience, and a little strategy. But the payoff is huge. Children who see their teachers and families working together get the message that learning is important—and that they’ve got a whole team cheering them on.
So, yes, some parents may be challenging. And yes, not every family will understand your approach right away. But by opening the lines of communication, being proactive, and showing a genuine interest in what goes on at home, you’re setting yourself—and your students—up for success.
Next time a parent calls with concerns, think of it as a chance to turn them into your ally. After all, with families on board, there’s no limit to what you and your students can achieve together.
