As the parent of a teen, you know that these years can be a whirlwind of growth, challenges, and exciting new opportunities. I’m currently the mom of three teen boys. I know firsthand how challenging and rewarding these years can be. As an educator specializing in reading intervention, I also know how critical these years are for laying the foundation for future academic and personal success. That’s why strong parent-teacher collaboration is absolutely essential.

Why Collaboration Matters

Open communication and partnership between parents and teachers create a support system that empowers teens to thrive. When we work together, we gain a more complete understanding of each student’s strengths, challenges, and learning style. This allows us to tailor our approach and provide the most effective support possible.

6 Steps to Fostering Strong Collaboration

1. Initiate Contact Early: Reach out to your teen’s teachers at the beginning of the school year. Share any relevant information about your child’s learning style, interests, or concerns. Worried you’ll be a bother- don’t! I ALWAYS welcome parent contact!
2. Attend Parent-Teacher Conferences: These meetings are invaluable opportunities to discuss your child’s progress, set goals, and develop strategies for improvement.
3. Maintain Regular Communication: Check in with teachers periodically via email or phone. Ask about your child’s academic progress, behavior, and social interactions.
4. Be Proactive: Don’t wait for problems to arise. If you notice changes in your teen’s behavior or academic performance, reach out to their teachers for guidance and support.
5. Partner in Learning: Ask teachers for specific ways you can support your teen’s learning at home. This might involve helping them with homework, creating a quiet study space, or reading together.
6. Respect Boundaries: Remember, both parents and teachers want what’s best for your teen. Approach conversations with respect and a willingness to collaborate.

Support for Reading Intervention

If your teen is struggling with reading, know that you’re not alone. Many students face challenges with literacy, and early intervention is key. As a reading intervention specialist, I’ve developed resources specifically designed to support older elementary and middle school students. My store, Teen Foundations, offers a variety of engaging and effective materials to help your teen build their reading skills and confidence.

Check out Teen Foundations on TpT for:

• High-interest reading passages tailored to teen interests
• Comprehension activities that focus on essential skills
• Vocabulary-building exercises to expand word knowledge
• Fluency practice materials to improve reading speed and accuracy

Together, we can help your teen reach their full potential. Remember, strong parent-teacher collaboration is a powerful tool for teen success.