Setting the Stage: Introducing Your Child to New Teachers

In today's episode Genie Dawkins delves into the importance of introducing your child to their new teacher. With the school year in full swing, Genie shares her own routine for creating a strong foundation between parents, teachers, and students. She emphasizes the need for a parent's letter of introduction, outlining key aspects such as a child's strengths, interests, challenges, and support requirements. Genie also explores the significance of setting expectations for the upcoming year and advocating for equitable education for children in special education, especially children of color. Stay tuned as Genie provides a template for crafting your own parent's letter of introduction, empowering both parents and children to have a voice in their.

Insight from this episode:

• Writing a letter of introduction for your child is a helpful tool in conveying their strengths, interests, challenges, and the support they need. It also allows you to share your hopes and aspirations for the upcoming school year.
• Mentioning specific triggers, such as test anxiety or sensitivity to noise, and suggesting support strategies can help teachers understand and better support your child.
• Collaboration and communication with the school team, especially during the IEP process, is crucial in advocating for your child's needs and ensuring their progress.
• Addressing the systemic and educational inequities faced by children, particularly children of color, is important. By setting high expectations and providing the necessary support, parents can help their child succeed despite these challenges.

Quotes from the show:

• "When crafting the parent's letter of introduction, include your child's interests, triggers/challenges, support needed, hobbies/activities outside of school, and your hopes/aspirations for the upcoming year. Setting expectations and advocating for your child is vital, especially for children in special education." - Genie Dawkins

• "Creating a letter with your child gives them a voice and helps them get used to introducing themselves. It promotes self-advocacy and collaboration between the child, the teacher, and the IEP team." -Genie Dawkins

Resources Mentioned

Parent-Teacher Collaboration for Child Success Kit

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