How to Impress Teachers

Students aren't the only ones who can benefit from impressing teachers. It also doesn't hurt for a parent to impress teachers. While it's not going to save your child from that awful test score, a good relationship with your child's teacher can only help your child's classroom experience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Get your child to school on time and minimize taking her out of class. Make dentist appointments after school or during lunch. Teachers appreciate attendance and punctuality; it makes their job easier.
2. Set aside time to do homework. It's best to have it done by early evening; tired children don't give homework their best effort. If your child has too many activities to get homework completed, then you need to reevaluate your priorities.
3. Allow your child to do his own homework, because you're not helping anyone if you do it. And the teacher knows. Believe it or not, a child's own work can impress the teacher more.
4. Expect your child to take responsibility for her actions. By the time she's in 4th or 5th grade, it's her responsibility to remember to bring her homework back to school. Impress teachers by not rescuing your child; hold her accountable.
5. Volunteer your time to help with classroom activities or field trips. Even if you only have a limited amount of time, you can still copy and staple papers during your lunch hour. This sends a message to both the teacher and your child that you consider school important.
6. Gift wisely to teachers. They really don't need another cute coffee mug. Give them something they can use, like a gift certificate to an educational supplies store. Or say thanks at the end of the year with a gift card to a bookstore or the movies. A homemade card by your child lends a nice, personal touch.