12 signs it’s time to talk with your child’s teacher
Expert reviewed by Rayma Griffin, MA, MEd
At a glance
You can ask to meet or talk with the teacher at any time.
If your child is struggling, let the teacher know.
Signs include not wanting to go to school or suddenly behaving differently.
It can be hard to know when to reach out to teachers. If your child is struggling with something, you may wonder if the challenges are “serious enough” to bring up. Should you take up the teacher’s time now or wait until parent-teacher conferences? And how often is too often to contact the teacher?
Teachers can be great sources of information and advice. They can shed light on what’s happening in the classroom and give you a sense of your child’s strengths and weaknesses.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child, you can ask to meet or talk at any time. Here are 12 signs that it’s time to reach out.
You see your child struggling with reading, math, writing, and other areas of learning.
Your child seems to have trouble with focus or self-control.
You see your child having trouble doing things other kids seem to do easily.
Your child is suddenly behaving differently.
Your child’s grades or test scores are slipping.
Your child doesn’t seem motivated or confident.
Your child doesn’t want to go to school (in-person or virtually).
Your child often gets angry or frustrated.
Your child often feels sick before school or complains of stomach aches and headaches.
Your child isn’t catching up, even with extra support at school.
Your child has a hard time finishing homework.
You think other kids are bullying your child or that your child is bullying other kids.
The more you and the teacher work together, the better it is for everyone — especially your child.
Key takeaways
Talk to the teacher if you suspect bullying.
The teacher can offer insights about what’s happening at school.
The more you work with your child’s teacher, the better it will be for your child.
