A parent can be your best partner, or your biggest pressure. The difference is communication. Keep it short, kind and specific.
Tell them the aim
After the first lesson, send one line.
This month we are working on speaking about the weekend.
Give one home task
Not homework for the parent. One small family habit.
Ask your child one English question at dinner.
Show progress
Send a short note once a month, or a recording with permission.
Listen to this. In October she could not say this.
Be honest, kindly
If the child is not practising, say so simply. Then offer a smaller plan.
Five minutes a day would help more than one hour on Sunday.
Do not compare children
Never say, "Her brother was faster." It hurts the child and the parent.
Keep boundaries
You are not the family's doctor, and you cannot fix everything. Teach what you can.
Words to remember
- parent — a mother or father
- aim — the thing you are working on
- progress — movement towards something better
- boundary — a clear limit
Questions & answers
Q: How often should I contact the parent?
Once a month is enough, unless there is a problem.
Q: What if the parent wants more homework?
Explain that small daily practice beats big weekly work.
Q: What if the parent criticises the lessons?
Listen first. Then show the aim and the progress.
Q: Should I tell the parent about every mistake?
No. Choose one useful thing to work on.
Q: What if the parent speaks no English?
Send short messages in their language, or use a simple translation app.