Working in Partnership

It is important to understand that not all parents wish to take part with working in partnership and some parents may react in a negative manner, but by not putting any pressure on them and taking a relaxed non-judgmental attitude it may result in them feeling more relaxed and having a more positive attitude. It is also important to try and find out why our attempts are not working and if/when possible adjust to better accommodate and encourage the parent. Those parents who act in a positive way will tend to be more at ease with discussing their child’s progress. Some carers may find it difficult to accept their child needs assessments to identify possible learning difficulties this can be helped by being sensitive and listening to any concerns the parent may have and offering lots of support and information and give plenty of time for discussions, explain that they will be informed about any changes and that their child will not be singled out. Involve parents and the child with details of what they should expect and that if their child is put on an IEP that they can come off it at any time and all information gained is confidential. If parents/carers are still not happy get SENCO to offer advice and also the manager/head teacher to offer support to the parents and staff. Parents tend to accept it more if it’s about their child’s learning but find it more difficult to accept if it’s about their child’s behaviour. It’s important to listen to what the carers and the child are saying and try your best to explain that it is in the best interest of the child. Give lots of advice and answer any questions they may have. Explain that by getting outside agencies in they too can give advice to staff and parents in the best ways to deal with the situation in order for their child to reach their full potential, and hold meetings in setting if it’s more convenient for the parents/carers. Parents may have suggestions on how they could be more involved and how to engage with...