Find out who your child's teacher or teachers will be prior to the beginning of the school year. Let your child know ahead of time who her teacher will be. Children may remember the teacher from the previous year and feel better knowing who to expect.
Read the teacher's website. If your child's teacher has an online profile with class information, reading this information will help you learn more about the teacher and his or her style. Many times, teachers will have some resources for parents and students that will make adjusting to school easier.
Contact the teacher prior to the beginning of school. By attending a back to school event or contacting the teacher via email or by phone, you are showing that you consider yourself a partner in your child's education. Take this opportunity to ask the teacher for clarification about anything you read on the website or to ask if there are any extra supplies the teacher needs.
Send your child to school well rested, fed, and prepared for the day. Include all of the supplies that were asked for. If you were able to buy a few extra supplies, include those as well. Teachers often use personal funds to stock classroom supplies, such as glue sticks and crayons.
Send a follow-up email after the first week of school. Thank the teacher for teaching your child and offer your support again. Use this message to ask any questions that have come up for you.
Attend your child's "Open House" regardless of grade or age. Even high schools hold "Open Houses" and it is important for your child and for the teacher to see that you are an active part of your child's education.
Continue to contact the teacher as needed throughout the school year. Ask questions or send the teacher praise when appropriate. The important thing is to keep the lines of communication open.
Plan ahead for Parent-Teacher Conferences. Look at the school calendar at the beginning of the school year and plan to be available during these times. Be prepared to discuss your child's strengths and challenges. Make a list of your concerns or questions so you won't forget anything. Bring a notepad to jot down things that are discussed.
Volunteer when possible. For many parents volunteering during school hours is not an option. Ask your child's teacher if he or she needs anything done that can be done at home. When a class is doing a project a teacher may need someone to cut out shapes or other tasks that can be done at home. If you can volunteer during school hours, then let the school office know. Other teachers may need the assistance and you could be building a good relationship with your child's future teacher.
Talk to your child about school. Ask about your child's day--every day. Let your child tell you about friends, teachers, classwork, and anything else he'd like to talk about.