Tips for Talking to Your Child’s Teacher

May 6

Today we’re diving in to a listener question from the podcast:

“How do I talk to my child’s veteran kindergarten teacher about them saying to memorize sight words? I don’t want to be rude.”

Let’s be clear: it’s not the teachers fault if they tell you to memorize words. They might not know! Teachers are expected to be an expert on every subject and that’s WILD to think in their free time they’re researching and teaching themselves everything. And then writing their own curriculum and often hiding that they’re doing it one they learn if their district hasn’t approved the switch yet 😳

Curriculum is not usually the decision of the teacher. I also was a teacher that thought this was how to teach kids how to read.

(I have a f r e e and easy guide for parents on the do’s and don’ts of sight words. Message @bigcityreaders on instagram the phrase: sight words and I’ll send it to you!)

4 tips on talking about this:

⚡️Remember you’re on a team- school admin, teachers, parents. We all have the same goal. We all want kids to succeed.

⚡️Be curious. Don’t go into a conservation with “I’m right” but I’m curious- “can you tell me more about the schools reading curriculum, this is new for me!” Be ready to learn more, not to have a “gotcha I know more than you” moment. Maybe we don’t have all the information. Maybe the school is in the process of changing. Maybe you are the first person bringing this to their attention.

⚡️Great schools LOVE when parents ask questions. You’re showing how invested you are in the entire school community. Check how you’re asking. Is it accusatory or is it actually to advocate for your child and other kids?

⚡️Be ready to be a part of the change!

For more tips and insights to nurture lifelong learners, hop over to my Instagram page.

And, don't forget to explore episodes on the podcast, Play On Words, where you’ll hear more about making learning fun and accessible for all.

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I’m the founder of BCR, host of the Play on Words podcast, a consultant for the Chicago Public Library, and more! On the blog, I regularly share my tips, insights, and knowledge on early literacy.