parent communication

Glow and Grow Charts   
2/16





Glow

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Grow

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Glow and Grow charts are sent home monthly as a means of keeping parents "in the loop" when it comes to their child's development.  We only officially meet twice a year for parent/teacher conferences, so this is a great way to send a little snapshot of how the child is doing in the classroom.  Of course, open communication is encouraged however, sometimes those drop-off and pick-up times are tricky to discuss the child's growth.  On these charts, I would typically write something under Glow like, "Johnny has progressed so much in his letter identification skills!  He should be very proud of his hard work.  Johnny also shines in the art center where he typically gravitates toward the painting easel--a favorite of his."  As you can see, comments written in the Glow section are usually about a student's strengths, progressions, passions, etc.  On the other hand, something I may write in the Grow section would be, "Johnny is working on his 1-to-1 correspondence in math.  We are supporting Johnny's growth by encouraging him to do 'x,y,z' in the math center, providing engaging math games during morning meeting, etc.  I think it's very important to not only let parents know what you are helping to strengthen, but also how you are doing it in the classroom so that their child's needs are being met.  Some 'at home' suggestions are very beneficial here as well.  These types of charts can be modified to meet your classroom routine and structure--just make sure you are communicating and being clear so that parents and teachers can work as a team.  



Parent Information Board 

2/16

Outside my classroom, I have a Parent Information Board displayed for parents to read up on what's new in the classroom, any articles I have come across and made available to take, Scholastic Book Order Catalogs, teacher bios, school related reminders, etc.  Throughout the years, I have modified my Parent Info Board depending upon factors such as space availability and how important the information is that is being displayed.  Some years they were big and others they were pretty small.  Some of my "must-haves" on my board are my weekly newsletter, reminders, and the school calendar.  You can make your board however it suits you and your classroom best!  I wanted to share because I have had many parents comment on how useful it is.  In a world of constant emails and Internet access, sometimes the good, old-fashioned way is appreciated best :).