If your first-born child is entering a preschool, such as Advantage Learning Center, for the first time this fall, then it is important that you know how to effectively communicate your needs and desires with their teacher. Effective communication with your preschooler's teacher fosters an honest and open relationship where you will both feel comfortable communicating your thoughts and feelings with each other. Effective communication requires a certain skill set that not everyone is familiar with and many people unknowingly fail at miserably. To ensure that you effectively communicate with your child's teacher, follow these time-tested tips:

Tip: Remember that Both You and Your Child's Teacher Want the Best for Your Child

Ask yourself a question. Why are you enrolling your child in preschool? The answer is likely because you want them to be prepared for elementary school. Now, ask yourself why your child's teacher chooses to work in a preschool. The answer is likely because they enjoy spending time with young children and preparing them for school.

The point of this exercise it to show you that both you and your child's teacher want the same thing for your child. If you will try to keep this one single fact in mind while communicating with your child's teacher, then you will have a much easier time understanding the issues they are communicating with you. Even if conflict arrises, it is vital to know that you both want the best for your child.

Tip: Consider Your Non-Verbal Communication as Well as the Words You Say

In addition to the words that you speak to your child's preschool teacher, you also need to be mindful of your non-verbal communication as well. For example, you should consider your:

• body language
• gestures
• facial expressions
• tone of voice

For example, if you are trying to resolve a conflict with the teacher while your arms are crossed and you are using an accusatory tone of voice, then you are communicating anger. The teacher will react to your anger and the conversation gets lost without the issue being resolved. However, if you sit down, smile at the teacher, and calmly express your concerns, then you are communicating in a way that shows you care.

Tip: Spend Some Time with Your Child's Teacher to Better Understand Their Communication Style

Finally, different people communicate in different ways. Some people are very quiet, while other people are loud and wave their hands around while they are talking. By spending some time with your child's preschool teacher you will learn how they communicate. This is very helpful for reducing misunderstandings and personality conflicts.