Concerned About Your Child’s New Teacher?

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Anxious About Your Child’s New Teacher? Here Are 8 Key Aspects to Look For

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Insights From My Experience… by Jessica Taylor

Updated: Feb. 20, 2024

Originally Published: Aug. 31, 2022

As the school year approaches, our home is buzzing with the chaotic energy of getting everything ready. Even as a former teacher, I still feel those back-to-school nerves at the end of summer, scouring stores for supplies and accompanying my kids on their quest for new first-day outfits.

My eldest son is about to embark on his middle school journey, and as I prepare for this transition, I find myself reflecting on his elementary school days and the different teachers he encountered. His learning and emotional needs are quite distinct, and we’ve noticed that his connections with certain teachers are much stronger than with others. As a mother, I want these educators to truly understand and appreciate his unique strengths. I worry about him being perceived as a higher-needs student in already bustling classrooms.

We were fortunate in elementary school. The principal recognized my son’s individuality and took our classroom placement concerns to heart. She was empathetic and understood the emotional weight of our situation. We expressed our desire for our son to enjoy school and be in an environment where he could flourish. Watching his enthusiasm for learning fade due to disconnect with teachers is truly heartbreaking.

The principal asked us to trust her judgment on teacher assignments, and looking back five years later, I’m grateful we did. Throughout first through fifth grades, my son had remarkable teachers who brought a special magic to the classroom—what I refer to as the “alchemy” of teaching.

Under the guidance of his elementary educators, my son truly thrived, and I hope for the same experience in middle school. As a mother, former educator, and social worker, I’ve watched these teacher-student interactions with both curiosity and hope, wondering how we can replicate this alchemy in every classroom and with every teacher.

Over time, I’ve identified essential criteria that make a teacher or classroom a good match for my child. I use these as a checklist each school year to assess how things are going and what additional support might be needed. There was one year when these needs weren’t met. We put in a lot of effort to make things work with that teacher, but ultimately, we decided to request a change. It was a difficult choice, but it was necessary advocacy for my child. Here are those eight essential needs to look for in your child’s teacher this year:

1. Essentials: Children require teachers who recognize their basic bodily needs. Look for educators who allow your child to snack, use the restroom, visit the nurse as necessary, and take breaks to stretch or stand.
2. Safety: Students need to feel both physically and emotionally secure. Seek out teachers who prioritize classroom climate and show genuine care for your child, quickly addressing any safety concerns.
3. Belonging: Kids thrive in environments where they feel known and accepted. Look for teachers who encourage individuality and celebrate each child’s uniqueness.
4. Mattering: Children need to know they are important, and that their contributions matter. Find teachers who value what students do and make learning relevant.
5. Play: Kids need opportunities for play, even as they grow older. Look for teachers who incorporate fun experiences and allow for unstructured play, as learning often happens through play.
6. Downtime: Children benefit from periods of rest and reflection. If they are constantly on the go, their minds can struggle to absorb new information. Seek teachers who build quiet time into the daily routine, like independent reading or journaling.
7. Exploration: Kids flourish when they can discover and explore new ideas. Look for teachers who encourage student-led projects and hands-on learning opportunities.
8. Community: Children need to connect with their peers. Positive relationships and social interactions are crucial for effective learning and development. Look for teachers who foster a supportive community among students and their families through activities like morning meetings and casual interactions.

Last night, we attended the middle school open house to find my son’s locker and drop off supplies. While navigating this new environment, we heard a familiar voice. It was my son’s first-grade teacher, now a parent of a middle schooler herself. She paused everything to check in on my son, offering encouragement and helpful tips on his tricky locker combination. Her smile, hug, and presence provided the reassurance we all needed for what lies ahead. Hopefully, the “next” includes teachers just like her.

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In summary, as you prepare for a new school year, it’s essential to consider the characteristics that make a teacher a good fit for your child. The right teacher can make all the difference in your child’s educational experience.