Tips for Parents and Teachers

By María Avina

Here are just a few suggestions I have for an open and respectful dialogue with families where English is not the primary language: 

1. Always have an interpreter there.  This goes without saying. However even if the parents are bilingual, ask if interpreter services are needed for other family members who may be involved in the child's care or schooling. Many families tend to shy away from bringing important family members for fear that they will not be accepted or perceived as a burden to the child’s schooling.

2. Have a liaison the parent can communicate with when the teacher is busy or  absent. Many times a parent won’t communicate things simply because the teacher isn’t available. Having a liaison person is crucial. For my mom it became the school receptionist.

3. Always offer to communicate via the internet.  Families or their children may have internet access.

4. Provide all written correspondence in Spanish and English.  For us it would have been very important to have my son’s back and forth notebook in Spanish.  I think teachers should find a way to send home personal notes and material in Spanish. This will help keep parents "in the know" on issues like how their day went, report cards, school events, and homework.

5. Encourage parents and significant family members to help in the classroom, library or clubs, Parent Teacher Association (PTA), etc.

6. Give parents a voice. Please make sure to help parents know that they have a voice in their child’s education. Help them understand that you need their involvement in curriculum planning, and ideas for how to work best with the student…again listen to those who are family members involved in the child’s care.

7. Figure out  cultural accommodations/interventions. What would help the student to be more successful with their education?

8. Environment.   Make the classroom environment culturally comfortable for the student

9. Be sensitive to families where English and Spanish are both spoken.  Many families have parents who are only Spanish speaking but may have brothers and sisters who are English speaking. You will find that family members are always willing to help

10. Cultural background. Always incorporate the child’s unique cultural background into instruction.

11. Decision-Making.  Respect families in the decision-making process for their children. IEP meetings are very scary for most parents. Include a parent who is non- English speaking and the fear is doubled. Encourage parents to bring family members and people they trust to help them take in all the information. Again provide interpreters.