Dear Nancy: This checklist will help your kid’s teacher

It is so important for teachers and parents to work together as partners so every child is successful in school.

Keep the lines of communication open between you, your child and the teachers. No one knows more about your child than you. Teachers want to know information about your child so they can better understand your child's needs and lay the groundwork for a cooperative relationship throughout the school year.

Here are some examples of things you can tell your child's teacher that will help him or her to do a better job.

» Health conditions: If your child has asthma, diabetes, allergies, or any other serious health con-dition, the teacher should be told.

» Family issues: When a family is going through a major change such as a divorce, a death in the family or a move, it can affect your child's behavior.

» Personality traits or behavior issues: Maybe your child is very shy and is worried about making new friends. Perhaps your kindergartner has been having tantrums at home. It is best to make the teacher aware of these issues.

» Strengths and weaknesses: Tell the teacher if your child excels in science but struggles in math. This will help the teacher know in what areas he or she needs more help.

» Learning style: You have taught your child many things throughout his or her life, so you have a good idea of his or her learning style. Let the teacher know if your child responds better through hands-on activities. Maybe your child is a visual learner instead of an auditory learner.

» Study habits: Tell the teacher about your child's study habits. Does he or she have difficulty finishing homework? Teachers can offer suggestions to make homework time go more smoothly.

» Special interests: Knowing about your child's interests can help a teacher make connec-tions in the classroom. It also helps build the relation ship between teacher and student.

The students will be back to school this week. Take some time Tuesday evening and ask your child how his or her first day went. Did they find their classrooms? Do they like their teachers? Did they have any problems? Did they make new friends?

Go through all their paper work with them. This lets them know school is important and you are there to support them, and please go to "Back to School Night." This is a great time to meet all the teachers and to get a feel for your child's day.

Write down some things you might want to share with the teacher. If your child is allowed to go, he or she will feel pride in showing you his or her classrooms and introducing you to teachers.

Have a great time!

Nancy Johnson ran an in-home child-care business for more than 20 years. She is also a teacher at Rippon Middle School. Send your questions to .