Brian's Reflection - 26 July 2011

During our group discussion, we were engulfed in a discussion of how to build self-esteem for guardians and if it was necessary. Overwhelmingly we believed it was necessary and we all provided different ways in which to do so. We emphasized the importance of building a positive relationship with guardians by letting guardians them know when their child is doing well in school. Our greatest issue we found was working with homework. Some of us, including myself found difficulties in the new methods of teaching, especially mathematics. Guardians may not know the specific method that was taught in school and therefore it can cause stress and frustration for both the guardians and the student. This can then reflect relationships with the teacher and the students and families. As a teacher we have to think about if our students are able to do the homework and what should be provided for families to aid with homework. Not everyone can meet for "parent training" and therefore teachers need to think other ways to have families work with their students on homework. It was a great discussion and expanded my thinking!