InsideADHD: School Communication

Introduction

Effective communication between parents and teachers is crucial in supporting students, especially those with ADHD. This tutorial provides actionable steps to enhance the dialogue between home and school, based on insights from educator Jon Weinberger and Dr. Jonas Bromberg. By following these steps, you can foster a collaborative environment that benefits students' academic and social development.

Step 1: Establish Regular Communication

• Set up consistent check-ins between parents and teachers.
• Use multiple communication channels such as emails, phone calls, or messaging apps to ensure accessibility.
• Schedule formal meetings at least once per term to discuss student progress.
• Encourage informal communication to build rapport and trust.

Step 2: Create a Collaborative Environment

• Involve parents in the educational process by sharing classroom goals and expectations.
• Encourage parents to voice concerns and suggestions regarding their child's learning.
• Develop a team approach where teachers and parents work together to support the child.

Step 3: Share Resources and Strategies

• Provide parents with resources that can help them support their child at home, such as study guides or organizational tools.
• Share classroom strategies that are effective for students with ADHD, such as visual schedules or breaks during lessons.
• Offer workshops or information sessions on ADHD to educate parents about the condition and its impact on learning.

Step 4: Set Clear Goals and Expectations

• Collaboratively set realistic academic and behavioral goals for the student.
• Use specific, measurable outcomes to track progress.
• Review and adjust goals regularly based on the student's development and needs.

Step 5: Foster Open Dialogue

• Encourage open discussions about the child's strengths and areas for improvement.
• Utilize a positive approach to feedback, focusing on solutions rather than problems.
• Ensure that both parties feel comfortable sharing their perspectives and experiences.

Conclusion

By implementing these steps, you can enhance communication between parents and teachers, creating a supportive network for students with ADHD. Regular check-ins, collaboration, resource sharing, clear goal setting, and open dialogue are key to fostering a successful educational experience. Consider initiating these practices in your own educational community to see meaningful improvements in student support and engagement.