"In my nine years of experience as a preschool teacher, I have had many uncomfortable, but much needed, conversations with parents of students. I always start by genuinely complimenting their child. I then make a recommendation for improvement and growth and immediately provide resources to support this request at home. For instance, last week, the conversation went something like, 'I must say that I greatly appreciate Samantha's participation when it comes to dancing, painting, and other art-based activities. She is certainly a creative force in our classroom! I would like to discuss how we can better support her interest in reading and language arts. For that reason, I have created a list of educational apps you can download on your tablet, to pique her interest further. Also, here is a list of age-appropriate books that she may enjoy reading. Could we work together for the next month and regroup to discuss her progress?' This method of coaching works for me every time because it's collaborative, non-blaming, and non-invasive."

Confrontation is challenging. Parents can get defensive about their children or be in denial about their children's struggles. In the end, both you and the parent want what's best for the child. Think about a time when you were able to speak honestly but empathetically to a parent about their child.

"One of my students would constantly disrupt class by distracting other students or refusing to participate in any activities. A few weeks after this behavior continued, I held a parent-teacher meeting and told the parent that while their child was bright and creative, I was concerned that she might be having some trouble focusing. We made a plan together, which included a lower sugar breakfast, more sleep, and a more disciplined schedule overall."