When You Need Help

What should you do if your child complains about a teacher?

Your child has several teachers with different teaching styles and personalities. You can expect her to complain about one of them occasionally. But investigate if complaints become strong and frequent.

Here’s what to do:

• Find out if the problem stems from the teacher’s expectations and assignments. Students commonly “hate” teachers who are too “hard,” too “demanding” and give “too much homework.” Your child may just have to get used to it. Teachers expect more of middle schoolers.
• Talk with your child about her behavior. She may need to adjust her behavior in this teacher’s class. For example, she may need to talk less to her friends in class. Also make sure that your child speaks to the teacher with respect.
• Schedule a conference with the teacher. Get her side of the story and share your child’s. Usually, parents and teachers can work something out.
• Ask to speak to an administrator, if you are truly getting nowhere.

Reprinted with permission from the October 2008 issue of Parents Still make the difference!® (Middle School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2008 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc. Source: Tom McIntyre, The Behavior Survival Guide for Kids, ISBN: 1-57542-132-1 (Free Spirit Publishing, 1-800-735-7323, www.freespirit.com).