Every parent wants their child to thrive in preschool. For many families, that means ensuring children are safe, cared for, and excited to learn. But what’s often overlooked is just how powerful our voices as parents can be in shaping that success.
Teachers bring expertise, structure, knowledge and a nurturing environment. Parents bring something equally valuable: an intimate knowledge of their child’s rhythms, quirks, likes and dislikes and needs. When these perspectives come together, the result is a stronger, more supportive preschool experience.
In my work in early childhood education technology, I’ve seen that the most positive outcomes happen when parents and teachers view themselves as partners. Still, it’s common for parents to hesitate. Some worry about being seen as “too involved,” while others assume teachers already have all the answers. The truth is, teachers deeply value the insights families provide and children benefit most when those insights are shared.
Think about it: you are your child’s very first teacher. Long before preschool, you’ve observed how they react in new situations, what soothes them, and what sparks their curiosity. You’ve noticed they may get overwhelmed in noisy places but settle in quieter places. You’ve seen how they need a few extra minutes to feel comfortable in a new group, or how a snack makes them more open to participating. You know that transitions go more smoothly when they get a gentle two-minute warning.
This isn’t just instinct, it’s meaningful knowledge that can help teachers personalize the classroom experience and when families share these observations, educators can better support each child, creating an environment where children feel secure, confident, and ready to learn.
A parent’s role doesn’t end at drop-off. It begins there, as you continue to be an advocate, collaborator, and partner in your child’s learning journey.
The Parent Advantage: What You See That Teachers Miss
Research shows that children whose parents maintain regular, meaningful communication with teachers outperform their peers in every area of development. We’re talking better academic performance, stronger social skills, improved emotional regulation, and increased confidence.
The reason is simple: consistency. When you and your child’s teacher are on the same page, your child experiences seamless support that allows them to focus their energy on learning rather than trying to navigate conflicting expectations.
But here’s where many parents get stuck. We worry about crossing boundaries or being seen as demanding. We stick to surface-level pickup conversations and accept vague responses like “They had a good day.”
Teachers actually want to hear from you and they recognize that your insights help them be more effective educators. That teacher who seems rushed at pickup? They’re probably juggling twenty responsibilities while ensuring every child gets home safely. The key is finding the right time and approach.
What Actually Makes a Difference
After working with hundreds of families, here’s what I’ve learned creates the biggest impact:
Share the context behind behaviors. If your child had a rough morning at home, a simple heads-up can completely change how their teacher interprets their mood. “Sophie didn’t sleep well and might need extra patience today” gives the teacher crucial information for supporting your child.
Communicate about changes at home. New baby? Moving houses? Parent traveling for work? These changes often show up in preschool behavior, and giving teachers advance notice helps them provide appropriate support.
Describe what works at home. Does your child respond well to choices? Need processing time before transitions? Work better with music or complete quiet? These strategies can often be adapted for the classroom.
Ask specific questions. Instead of “How was their day?” try “What did you notice about their social interactions?” or “Were there activities where they seemed particularly engaged?”
The Real-Time Communication Game Changer
When parents share with educators in real time, it makes a noticeable difference. Letting a teacher know your child has been buzzing with excitement about painting, for example, gives them the chance to weave that enthusiasm into the day. On the other hand, if educators share that your child found sharing difficult during center time, you can gently reinforce those skills at home.
This kind of exchange creates a continuous support loop. Your child experiences consistent guidance and encouragement across both environments, helping them feel secure, build confidence, and make faster progress.
When Disagreements Happen
Not every conversation will be easy. There may be times when you disagree with a teacher’s assessment or approach. This is normal, and handling it well is crucial.
I’ve seen situations where parents felt a teacher was being too harsh, or teachers felt parents were being too lenient. The key is remembering you’re both on the same team with the same goal, helping your child succeed.
Instead of getting defensive, try collaborative language: “I’ve noticed something different at home. Can we observe together and brainstorm some strategies?” This approach often leads to creative solutions that work for everyone.
Parent App as Your Communication Ally
Many preschools now use apps that make communication easier. These tools let you see photos from your child’s day, receive activity updates, and message teachers directly.
Take advantage of these platforms such as Parent, but remember they’re meant to enhance, not replace, real conversation. Use the information as starting points for deeper discussions about your child’s development.
Making It Work for Busy Families
I know you’re busy. Between work, household management, and everything else on your plate, adding another communication task can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to make it manageable:
- Use pickup and drop-off time for quick check-ins
- Send brief emails when you notice patterns at home
- Request phone calls for more complex discussions
- Attend parent-teacher conferences prepared with specific questions
- Use school apps for day-to-day updates
The investment doesn’t have to be huge, but it needs to be consistent.
The Ripple Effect
When you actively communicate with your child’s teacher, you’re not just improving their preschool experience. You’re modeling the importance of education and respectful relationships. You’re showing your child that school matters and that the adults in their life work together.
Children who see engaged parents develop stronger relationships with teachers throughout their academic journey. They’re more likely to seek help when needed and more confident in their ability to succeed.
You’re also building your own advocacy skills. The communication strategies you develop now will serve you well as your child moves through elementary, middle, and high school.
Starting Today
If you’re realizing you haven’t been communicating as actively as you’d like, don’t worry. It’s never too late to start. Begin with something simple—share a positive observation about what your child has told you about school, then ask if there’s anything specific they’re working on that you could support at home.
Most teachers will be thrilled to hear from you. Once you open that door, regular communication becomes natural and incredibly valuable.
Trust What You Know
Here’s the bottom line: you know your child better than anyone else. Your observations matter. Your insights are valuable. Your concerns are legitimate.
That gut feeling when something doesn’t seem right? Trust it and speak up. That sense your child could benefit from a different approach? Share it. That excitement when they master something new? Communicate it.
Your voice in your child’s preschool experience isn’t just welcome, it’s essential. When you speak up with love and collaborative spirit, you give your child the greatest gift possible: a team of adults who truly understand and support their unique journey.
The partnership between you and your child’s teacher has the power to transform their educational experience. And it all starts with recognizing that your insights matter just as much as their professional expertise.
About the Author
Dana Alqinneh is a passionate advocate for early childhood education and Head of Pedagogy Innovation at Parent App, a comprehensive preschool management platform that bridges the communication gap between parents and teachers. With a background in trauma-informed education, technology and child development, Dana uses her practical and theoretical knowledge to help support educators and parents.
She holds a Master’s degree in Education and has worked directly with hundreds of families to strengthen home-school partnerships. Dana enjoys exploring new educational methodologies and spending time with her own young children.
