Wait! Don’t hit send…YET!

Can we talk about feeling over the top defensive when you receive an email from your child’s teacher and you feel like they just don’t “get” your child?

Or how about being extremely angry when you receive an email about a behavior that could be managed if your child’s 504 was being followed by EVERYONE?

Our first reaction might be to send a fiery email right back. We all know that fiery, emotional emails don’t really bring much change.

Well thought out, purposeful emails will help keep you in a position of responding versus reacting. It will also demonstrate a record of proactive communication which will help when it comes to finding allies within your school community. You can still include your emotions–it is important to show the effect the situation is having– but if the email is well thought out and controlled, it will yield better results.

Will these types of emails bring about necessary changes? Not always but they will definitely keep you in a place of advocating for your child without lashing out.  

We can’t take away our emotions but we can figure out how to move forward without sending an emotional email.

• You are going to want to consider venting to someone who will listen and only listen so you can get it all out!
• You are also going to want to step away and come back before hitting send.
• Think less is more! Get to the point; teachers are very busy.
• Be clear in what you are asking for or saying.
• Remember a teacher’s intention might be different than the impact it is having on you. Don’t make assumptions rather ask questions for clarity.

Grab your own copy of our email checklist here. Screenshot it or print it out so you can use it before hitting send on any emails.

We know for sure that being mindful about communicating will bring some ease into difficult exchanges.

After you use the checklist we would love to hear what you think about this topic! Comment here and let us know your thoughts.