Talking with Parents

[prestone1906]

May I ask, why is it so important for physical educators to talk with parents? When sending home material, how much is too much?

[Gerryc]

Talking with parents will be the life blood of what we really do . Once our doors are closed , it is our responsibility to let the parents know that today's PE is much more different than they thought. It is also a time to set up meet and greet programs , gym shows or presentations for the parents to watch what their child / children are really doing in PE class.

This goes far beyond sending home reports, fitness calendars or homework . This entails volunteering for PTA functions as a speaker and having PE information placed in the school newsletter.

If we want to be recognized , then we must do as our counterpart core subject teachers . That goes along with organizing the classes to national standards and appropriate testing and grading procedures . No, it's never too much , but it must be aligned with your curriculum and not busy, paperwork . The bottom line success will be when sitting around the dinner table , a parent asks , " So, what did you do in PE today? " This is when you know that (we) have arrived and taken our rightful and vital place in the school district . Don't forget to be apart of the community with things such as , recreation department , youth leagues and fun runs/ biking /outdoor education or fitness trails.

Gerry Cernicky(pingeyez2)
http://igreen.tripod.com/gerpe

[prestone1906]

Thank you so much!!! I am an intern and I am sending home parent letters and informationals about activities we are doing in the classroom. Some of the parents send them back with great feedback and others don't write anything. I am honestly trying to reach out to the parents and let them know that I care about their children. I want them to know that I am doing my best with every lesson that I teach. I am learning on the fly but I am having the time of my life. Once again, thanks so much!!!

[weissice]

Gerry, as usual gave some great advice. I agree with everything he said.

Don't worry if you don't always hear from parents. That does not mean they do not appreciate your efforts. Of course, you should take every opportunity to meet with as many parents as you can.

People don't always respond to information. I always try to make it a practice to respond, but in my life I have learned that many people, even when they appreciate what you do for them, don't take the time to tell you.

As an example, I know my web site is very useful to many educators. I heard from many of them. However, the vast majority who use my web site do not give me any feedback, even though it would really be appreciated.

Keep up the good work.

Howie Weiss
http://www.weissice.com