Module 3: How do I Communicate with Families?
Module Description:
This module is all about communication. Communication is an important ingredient for creating strong partnerships with families. There are many points for communication within the special education process including discussing the reason and process for the evaluation, gathering information during the evaluation, discussing evaluation results, developing an IEP, and sharing progress. Poor or unclear communication at any of these points can lead to misunderstandings and conflict that can negatively impact the partnership. In this module, you will learn about:
- Four basic communication strategies for connecting with families
- Establishing two-way communication and the power of positive contacts
- Strategies for having hard conversations
- Tips for effectively working with interpreters
Aligned NAFSCE Competencies:
#3. Build Trusting Reciprocal Relationships with Families
#4. Foster Community Partnerships for Learning and Family Wellbeing
Pre-Reflection
- Think of a time that you received positive feedback or a compliment from someone you had a good relationship with.
- How did their feedback make you feel?
- How did the feedback impact your relationship?
- Consider a time that someone you trusted gave you some hard or challenging news (e.g., you made a mistake, you did something wrong, a family member did something wrong).
- How did you respond?
- Would your response be different if it came from someone you did not have a trusting relationship with?
- What do you wish the person would have done to support you when they told you the news?
- https://www.thoughtco.com/tips-for-highly-successful-parent-teacher-communication-3194676 ↵
