M . D E WA N A T H O M P S O N M A R I A R O S A S G A R C I A

V I L L A G E C O N S U LT I N G G R O U P

Communicating with Parents

What we will discuss today:

  Establishing Relationships

  How to Communicate?   Over Communicate-Don’t just use one method of

communication

  Consider Culture when Communicating

  Create a Welcoming Environment   Customer Service   Parent Information Table   Parent Rooms   List Enrichments/Schedule   Pictures of Counselors

  Where to Communicate?   Don’t just limit yourself to the school

  Communication is Not One-Way: Parent Feedback

What is Communication?

  Communication is a system for transmitting or exchanging information

  Communication is not just verbal. It is the means by which you relay information to parents.

"Effective communication is 20% what you know and

80% how you feel about what you know.“ ~Jim Rohn

20%

80%

The Information

How You Feel About the Information

The Conversation

1st Establish Relationships

1. Don’t Make Assumptions

2. Have Positive Conversations About Child

3. Introduce Yourself

4. Address Barriers

Village Consulting Group Please do not duplicate without the written consent of the authors

The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.

Over-Communicate

Communicating with Diverse Cultures

  Native Language/Translators

  Sharing Space

  Touching

  Eye Contact

  Time Ordering of Interactions

Create a Welcoming

Space

Place information where it is likely to be

seen

Market Your

Program

Welcome parents

& their

young children

Outside of School At the School

  Churches   Community Centers   During Sporting Events   Grocery Stores   Library

  During Pick-Up   During Drop-Off   Parent Rooms   Parent Boards   Student Events

Where to Communicate?

Meet the Parents Where

They Are

“WHEN ALL OTHER MEANS OF COMMUNICATION FAIL, TRY WORDS….OR FOOD”

Remember……..