
Table of Contents
In today’s educational landscape, collaboration between parents and teachers is more crucial than ever. When parents and teachers work together, they create a unified support system that helps students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Building this partnership requires effective communication, the right tools, and a shared commitment to student success.
Let’s explore some ways that I believe parents and teachers can work together using modern communication tools and collaborative strategies to ensure that students excel both at school and at home.
The Importance of Collaboration
Students benefit significantly when their parents and teachers are on the same page. Research shows that students with engaged parents perform better academically, exhibit more positive behaviors, and are more likely to graduate. When parents and teachers work together, they create a consistent learning environment that reinforces educational concepts both in the classroom and at home.
Key benefits of collaboration include:
- Improved academic performance.
- Better communication between school and home.
- Enhanced social and emotional support for students.
By fostering strong relationships, parents and teachers can create a team mentality that puts the student’s needs first.
Using Communication Tools to Bridge the Gap
One of the most effective ways for parents and teachers to collaborate is by leveraging digital tools. Platforms like ClassDojo, Remind, Google Classroom, and Schoology make it easier than ever to share updates, communicate effectively, and stay informed about what’s happening in the classroom.
1. ClassDojo
ClassDojo allows teachers to share classroom updates, behavior reports, and photos with parents in real-time. It’s an excellent tool for keeping parents in the loop about their child’s progress and daily activities.
2. Remind
This app is ideal for quick and direct communication. Teachers can send text reminders about homework, upcoming events, or important announcements, ensuring parents stay informed.
3. Google Classroom
Google Classroom is a comprehensive tool that lets teachers post assignments, share resources, and communicate with students and parents. Parents can check what their children are learning and help them stay on track.
4. Schoology
As a full-featured learning management system, Schoology allows teachers to manage courses, distribute assignments, and communicate with parents. It’s a great option for schools looking for a centralized platform.
By using these tools, teachers can provide parents with daily insights into what is being taught and how their child is progressing. This helps parents feel more connected to the classroom and better equipped to support their child’s learning at home.
Teaching Together: Collaborative Strategies for Parents and Teachers
When parents and teachers work together, they can reinforce important concepts both at school and at home. Collaborative teaching strategies make it easier for students to grasp challenging subjects and feel supported in their learning journey.
Reinforcing Math Skills
Math can often be a challenging subject for students, but tools like IXL, Prodigy, and Khan Academy make it easier for parents to help at home. For example:
- IXL provides personalized practice tailored to a student’s skill level.
- Prodigy turns math into a fun and interactive game.
- Khan Academy offers free video tutorials that explain math concepts in detail.
By sharing access to these resources and encouraging consistent practice, parents and teachers can work together to help students develop confidence in math.
Supporting Reading Development
Reading is a foundational skill that requires consistent reinforcement. Parents can use tools like Raz-Kids and Epic! to access a vast library of books and reading activities. Teachers can guide parents on which books or skills to focus on, ensuring a seamless partnership.
Encouraging STEM Learning
Science and technology are best learned through hands-on experiences. Platforms like Mystery Science or LittleBits offer interactive experiments and projects that parents and children can complete together. Teachers can share these resources with parents to extend STEM learning beyond the classroom.
Overcoming Challenges in Parent-Teacher Collaboration
While the benefits of collaboration are clear, challenges can arise. Busy schedules, technology barriers, and differing expectations can sometimes hinder the partnership between parents and teachers. Addressing these challenges proactively is essential to ensure parents and teachers can work together effectively to benefit the student.
Time Constraints
Both parents and teachers often have demanding schedules. To overcome this, teachers can use asynchronous communication tools like Google Classroom, where parents can access updates at their convenience.
Technology Barriers
Not all families have access to the latest technology. In these cases, providing printed materials or using text-based apps like Remind ensures that communication remains accessible to everyone.
Cultural and Language Differences
Cultural and language differences can sometimes lead to misunderstandings. Schools can offer translation services or use tools like ClassDojo, which supports multiple languages, to ensure effective communication.
What Parents Can Do to Support Collaboration?
For parents wondering how they can actively contribute to their child’s academic journey, there are many simple yet impactful steps to take. When parents and teachers can work together effectively, the results are transformational for students. Here are some actionable tips for parents to strengthen their role in this partnership:
Attend Parent-Teacher Conferences Regularly
Taking part in parent-teacher conferences shows your commitment to your child’s success. Use this time to ask questions, share concerns, and learn about your child’s progress directly from their teacher.Follow Up on Assignments or Feedback
Platforms like Google Classroom or Schoology allow parents to track assignments and see teacher feedback. I’d like to point out that regularly checking in makes sure you know what your child is working on and where they might need extra help. Following up on this feedback ensures parents and teachers can work together to address challenges as they arise.Engage in At-Home Learning Activities
Teachers often provide resources or suggestions for at-home learning activities. For example:- Practice math using tools like IXL.
- Read with your child using platforms like Epic! or Raz-Kids.
- Conduct simple science experiments inspired by resources like Mystery Science.
Working on these activities reinforces what’s being taught at school and shows your child that learning continues outside the classroom.
By taking these steps, parents can become valuable partners in their child’s education. Remember, the goal is to create a team mentality where parents and teachers can work together to ensure students succeed academically and emotionally.
Building a Partnership for Lifelong Learning
The ultimate goal of parent-teacher collaboration is to instill a love of learning in students. This requires a long-term commitment from both sides. Here are some ways to build a lasting partnership:
- Workshops and Webinars: Schools can host events that teach parents how to support their child’s learning at home.
- Resource Sharing: Teachers can provide parents with guides, worksheets, and online resources.
- Celebrating Success: Recognize and celebrate students’ achievements through newsletters, social media, or classroom updates.
When parents and teachers work together consistently, they lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning in students.
Success Stories: Real Examples of Collaboration
Many schools have seen incredible results when parents and teachers collaborate effectively. For example:
- A second-grade teacher used ClassDojo to share daily updates, which helped a struggling student improve their behavior and academic performance.
- A parent-teacher team in a STEM program encouraged students to build a robot at home and present it at school, fostering creativity and teamwork.
These stories highlight how collaboration can make a real difference in students’ lives.
Conclusion
The question of how parents and teachers can work together has no one-size-fits-all answer. However, by using communication tools like ClassDojo and Google Classroom, collaborating on teaching concepts with resources like IXL and Mystery Science, and addressing challenges head-on, parents and teachers can create a partnership that drives student success.
Collaboration takes effort, but the rewards are undeniable. When parents and teachers unite in their mission, students gain the support and encouragement they need to reach their full potential. Take the first step today and start building a partnership that benefits everyone involved.

Jeremy Sayers
My first blog was meant to connect with and provide resources for students and parents in the 2nd-grade class I was teaching.
EdThings.com is an extension of that first site. There are many math resources and worksheets on this site, along with articles related to the field of education.
I have been an elementary school teacher for over 20 years. In 2023 I was honored to be named as an LAUSD Teacher of the Year. Thank you for visiting. I hope this site is helpful to you.