How to Build a Positive Relationship with Your Child’s School

Maybe a previous school let your child down, or you've been chasing the same promise since September and your patience is wearing thin. It's natural to walk in braced for a fight, but a fight rarely gets your child what they need.

There's a steadier way to work with school staff, starting with four Ps: be patient, persistent, proactive and positive. Look for allies, the members of staff your child trusts, because they can show you how things really get done. After a meeting, send a short email saying who agreed to do what and by when. And if you've written an angry email, sleep on it, then take it to a face-to-face conversation instead of pressing send.

Small things count as well. A thank-you note that names what a teacher did for your child that day means more to them than you might think.