Parents can only help when they have been informed. Parents need to be notified of their child's behavior. Making phone calls when there is a problem is an effective way to create parent support. Working together helps create a united front. When students realize that parents and teachers are on the same side, they are more likely to stop displaying the same negative behaviors as there will be consequences for their actions.
Another effective strategy to involve parents in behavior management is to complete a weekly progress report. At the end of every school week, the teacher fills out a report indicating the student's grade and a narrative describing the student's behavior. With a weekly report, the behavior can be closely monitored, and it prevents the situation from escalating out of control. This sheet will also cut down on phone calls home, which can be difficult for both teachers and parents.
Detentions and suspensions can deter some students from acting out in a negative way; however, many students are unaffected by these forms of discipline. Parents can step in and work with teachers to create consequences that the students will care about and try to avoid. For example, if negative behavior persists, parents can take away a cellphone or limit the use of a computer. To the student, these punishments matter more than the inconvenience of a detention.
Bring the parents into school to have a meeting with the student. Teachers can explain the negative behavior in front of the parent and student. In this way, the student cannot spin the situation, which can often happen at home. Set up a behavioral contract with the parents and the student. Everyone will know what is expected and what the consequences will be if these guidelines are not followed. A follow-up meeting should also be set up during the meeting so the student is aware that his progress will be watched closely.