Whether you are going to a new school or returning to your old school chances are you will have a new teacher each year. Children and families build strong relationships with their teachers over the period of a school year and there is often a sense of need or want to stay with that teacher or keep everything the same as it was last year. However, as in real life, we need to prepare and support young children to be able to learn from and work with different personalities.
Here are some tips on starting the school year with a new teacher.
Every teacher is different.
As with many professions, there are of course stereotypes but not every teacher looks and sounds the same! Every teacher is different so don’t go in with an expectation or you may be disappointed. Also do not expect that this teacher is going to do all the same things or everything the same way the previous teacher did.
New teachers are good for your child.
Your child will have a range of different teachers throughout their learning journey and they will all have different teaching styles and approaches. This is great for your child as they will find out what works for them and it also helps to keep their learning fresh. The common theme with all of your child’s teachers is that they will all want what is best for your child. Try to trust in their knowledge and work together to support your child.
Assume positive intentions.
If you question or disagree with a teacher’s decision or judgement, approach the teacher with the understanding that they almost always make decisions based upon what they believe is best for your child. Remarkably, your child’s teacher almost certainly loves your child, especially in early years where teachers spend all day long with their students. You can disagree with a teacher’s decision, of course, but always approach the situation with patience, grace, and a willingness to listen.
Talk to your teacher.
If at any time you have questions or concerns regarding your child’s learning or development the best person to talk to is your child’s teacher. Keep in mind that drop off and pick up times are best reserved for general and short conversations. Anything sensitive or of concern should be discussed in private and at a time your teacher is not busy engaging with all the other families of the class. Send your teacher a message or ask the school office to help set up a private meeting to be held outside of teaching hours.
Getting settled into the new school year and building a relationship with the new teacher doesn’t happen overnight. It may take several weeks, a month or longer for this to happen so be patient and supportive through the process. And remember – early years teachers are a special breed – they become teachers because they love children and are committed to providing the best education and care for them.
