Learn how to communicate more clearly, respectfully, and productively with the parents of your English language learners (ELLs) using these tips.

Good suggestions, as long as there is enough time. However, to save time and effort, one might, with the help of community members, develop audio or printed material in advance. This could cover, in the parents' language, topics that often come up in face-to-face meetings. A very effective method is to give a spoken presentation for all parents, with professional interpreters provided. What to avoid: having children interpret for parents in a school setting. Children are not usually able to interpret completely and reliably, especially in matters relating to their own school experience.

How can you communicate more effectively with parents of English language learners?

Communication is vital for any successful parent-teacher relationship, but it can be especially challenging when there are language and cultural barriers. As a teacher, you want to engage and support the parents of your English language learners (ELLs), but you may not know how to do it effectively. Here are some tips to help you communicate more clearly, respectfully, and productively with parents of ELLs.

1 Know your audience

Before you reach out to the parents of your ELLs, try to learn as much as you can about their backgrounds, preferences, and needs. What languages do they speak at home? How familiar are they with the school system and the curriculum? What are their expectations and goals for their children's education? How do they prefer to communicate with you: phone, email, text, or in person? Do they need an interpreter or a translator? Knowing your audience will help you tailor your messages and avoid misunderstandings.

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Joseph Dunford

Shifting gears!
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Good suggestions, as long as there is enough time. However, to save time and effort, one might, with the help of community members, develop audio or printed material in advance. This could cover, in the parents' language, topics that often come up in face-to-face meetings. A very effective method is to give a spoken presentation for all parents, with professional interpreters provided. What to avoid: having children interpret for parents in a school setting. Children are not usually able to interpret completely and reliably, especially in matters relating to their own school experience.

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Johanna Druen, MAE

Professional School Counselor, Life Coach, Phi Mu Fraternity national volunteer
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I found that the best tool in my toolbox was a program for texting families in which I could type my message in English and they could choose to receive the message in any language they wanted. In addition to the translation help, the text app helped with general communication needs. Many of my ESL families were using cell phones with purchased minutes so they didn’t always have enough minutes to receive phone calls, so they used Wi-Fi for texting when possible. So the app was also perfect for that.

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Ahlam Alghrari

ESL bilingual teacher
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As start, can meeting with parents by called home visit or online call. And have to know them personally more than about thier kids. Must know How they live, know thier experience of life, how many languages speak, traditions and so on. Try to immerse by eating their food, look at the students photos. Choosing good topics and may play fun games for practice the language. Be as friend not as teacher.

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2 Use simple and clear language

When you communicate with the parents of your ELLs, avoid using jargon, slang, idioms, or acronyms that may confuse them. Use simple and clear language that conveys your main points and actions. For example, instead of saying "Your child needs to work on their phonics skills", you could say "Your child needs to practice the sounds of the letters". If you need to use technical terms, explain them in plain language. For example, instead of saying "Your child will take the WIDA ACCESS test", you could say "Your child will take a test that measures how well they can use English in school".

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Dave Cornell, Ph.D.

Specialist in Early Childhood Education: Curriculum Design, Teacher-Training, Start-Up School Consultant
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To be honest, even if using clear and simple language, there is a good chance that the parents will not understand. Even the example statements provide in this scenario ("Your child needs to practice the sounds of letters"), may not be understood at all. In this situation, if at all possible, there needs to be someone that can translate. It might seem difficult to find someone at the school that can do this, but there are not a lot of meetings with parents so it needs to be effective. Most parents will also appreciate the effort. They want to know as much about their child's progress as possible and will want to ask the teacher questions as well.

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3 Be respectful and sensitive

Communication is not only about words, but also about tone, gestures, and body language. Be respectful and sensitive to the cultural norms and values of the parents of your ELLs. For example, some cultures may consider direct eye contact or pointing as rude or aggressive, while others may expect a formal greeting or a handshake. Some cultures may value modesty and humility, while others may appreciate praise and recognition. Some cultures may have different views on parental involvement, discipline, or feedback. Be aware of these differences and adjust your communication style accordingly.

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4 Use multiple and accessible channels

To communicate more effectively with the parents of your ELLs, use multiple and accessible channels that suit their needs and preferences. For example, you could use phone calls, emails, texts, newsletters, websites, or social media to share information and updates. You could also use apps or tools that allow you to translate your messages into different languages or record voice messages. You could also invite the parents to join online or in-person meetings, workshops, or events that foster collaboration and engagement. Make sure to provide clear instructions and reminders for accessing these channels and offer support if needed.

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5 Seek feedback and input

Communication is a two-way process that requires listening and responding. Seek feedback and input from the parents of your ELLs to understand their perspectives, concerns, and suggestions. Ask open-ended questions that encourage them to share their opinions and experiences. For example, you could ask "How do you support your child's learning at home?" or "What are some challenges or successes that your child has faced in school?" Acknowledge and validate their feedback and input and show that you value their contributions. Follow up with actions or solutions that address their needs and expectations.

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6 Build trust and rapport

Communication is also a way to build trust and rapport with the parents of your ELLs. Show that you care about their children's well-being, progress, and achievements. Recognize and celebrate their children's strengths, interests, and accomplishments. Share positive and constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement. Express appreciation and gratitude for their support and involvement. Be honest and transparent about your goals, expectations, and challenges. Be consistent and reliable in your communication and follow through on your promises. By building trust and rapport, you can create a positive and productive parent-teacher partnership that benefits your ELLs.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you communicate more effectively with parents of English language learners?

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1 Know your audience

2 Use simple and clear language

3 Be respectful and sensitive

4 Use multiple and accessible channels

5 Seek feedback and input

6 Build trust and rapport

7 Here’s what else to consider

Parent-Teacher Communication

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