Step 1: Keep Data

Keeping data can remind you what happened during the week. It's also a great way to keep your child's teacher in the loop.

Your school may have its own data sheet. If not, we created this one to help you. To use this data sheet:

1. Print a copy. If you do not have a printer, see "no printer?" in the gray box.
2. Write your child's name at the top.
3. Write your name.
4. Write your phone number or email under Preferred Contact.
5. Write the first date of the week under Week Of.
   

Use each section for a new subject, special (art, music or gym) or therapy. If your child does well, write a check in the box. If your child struggles, write an X.

Example

Here's an example of a student who struggled with math.

On Monday, the student started his math without arguing. He stayed on task. He did need help to get through the problems. Overall, the parent felt that their child understood his math homework.

Tuesday was rough. The child didn't want to start work. He also struggled to stay focused. The parent helped with the problems but still felt that their child understood the assignment.

On Wednesday, the student didn't want to start work. Once he did, he was able to focus and complete the work all by himself.

Step 2: Regular Check-ins

You should try to check in with your child's teacher once a week.

If things are going well: Send a short email where you share highlights. To help you remember:

• Send an email with your data sheet once it's complete, OR
  
• Add a note on your family's calendar
  

If your child is struggling: You may need to communicate more often. Sometimes it can take several back-and-forth emails. When emailing your child's teacher:

• Include copies of your data.
• List what went well and what didn't.
  
• Ask how soon your child's teacher wants you to follow up.
  

Remember: Check in with your child's teacher as soon as you think they are struggling. This way, your child's teacher can start giving you ideas to help right away.

Tip: Asking for Help

Sometimes it just takes a different way of looking at school work. Your child's teacher is a great resource for different ways to work on the same skills.

Step 3: Don't be Ashamed to Ask for Help

Many families are struggling with behavior problems related to school work. We also know from talking with CFK families that lots of us feel ashamed because of it.

One family said that their kindergartener turned the laptop off in a middle of a speech therapy session. The family of a 12-year-old shared how their child hid under the desk for a Zoom with her teacher. Other families say that their children are hitting, bothering siblings who are on task, and throwing tantrums.

There are many reasons why your child might be misbehaving. Your child's teacher can help you to adjust work -- but only if they know you are having trouble.

Remember: Your child isn't bad; they're communicating with behavior

Our children have gone through a tremendous amount of trauma:

• End to in-person classes
• New rules about seeing friends and family
• Missing out on familiar end-of-the-year rituals
• And more
  

Behavior is one way that your child may be sharing these feelings. When your child goes through periods of challenging behavior, it's important to communicate with your child's teacher. Teachers may be able to change work loads or help you find other ways to help.