Dear Parent,
Every child’s growth is like a journey. On this journey, school and family are the two hands that hold and guide them forward. If one hand is strong while the other is absent, the child’s steps may falter. But when both hands work together, in trust, communication, and support, the child walks with confidence and joy.
At XLIS, we believe that the degree of collaboration between parents and teachers has a profound impact on each child’s development. A strong and open parent–school partnership ensures that students feel supported both at home and at school, fostering their confidence, responsibility, and overall well-being.
I noticed that 111 parents were unable to attend important events such as Community Day and Meet the Teacher’s Night. These gatherings are designed to keep you closely connected to your child’s learning environment, and I encourage all families to make participation a priority. Your involvement sends a powerful message to your child that their education matters and that home and school are working together to guide them.
I have also observed that some children are skipping breakfast at school. A nutritious breakfast is essential for their health, brain development, and ability to stay focused in class. Please take a moment to ask your child about their morning routine. If they prefer not to eat in the school cafeteria, kindly prepare a simple, nourishing option, such as eggs, milk, or other healthy foods, so they can begin the day with the energy they need.
To help our children thrive, there are positive ways parents can actively support learning and development. The following examples show how parent–school collaboration can make a real difference.
Encouraged Collaboration
1. Regular Communication with Teachers
- Why important: Consistent updates help parents and teachers identify challenges early to collaboratively solve them.
- Suggestion: In addition to in-person conversations, check SeeSaw, ManageBac, and email regularly for updates and messages.
2. Participation in School Events
- Why important: Being present at school activities strengthens the sense of community and belonging.
- Suggestion: Attend not only community events but also different themed parent workshops and open days for each grade, which are designed to deepen understanding of your child’s learning.
3. Familiarity with School Handbooks and Key Policies
- Why important: Understanding school expectations ensures consistency between home and school.
- Suggestion: Take time to read the Parent Handbook and your child’s Year-Level Handbook. Become familiar with essential school policies related to academic integrity, restorative practice, assessment, and child protection. When parents reinforce these values at home, children develop respect for rules and a stronger sense of responsibility.
4. Positive Reinforcement at Home
- Why important: Praising effort encourages resilience and motivation.
- Suggestion: Say, “I noticed you worked hard on your project,” rather than focusing only on grades.
5. Consistent Routines
- Why important: Healthy routines support focus and emotional balance.
- Suggestion: Aim for 8–10 hours of sleep per night, family meals without screens, and a quiet space for homework.
6. Encouraging Independence
- Why important: Responsibility nurtures confidence and problem-solving skills.
- Suggestion: Let your child manage small daily tasks such as packing their own school bag, tidying their room, or helping with cooking.
7. Collaborative Problem-Solving with Teachers
- Why important: Shared responsibility avoids blame and builds trust.
- Suggestion: Use “we” language in conversations, e.g., “How can we support my child together?”
8. Celebrating Learning Together
- Why important: Recognition boosts motivation and self-esteem.
- Suggestion: Spend time on parent–child reading, review your child’s portfolio, or ask what they are most proud of. Everyday family activities, such as reading together or cooking a meal, help children feel connected and valued.
At the same time, it is important to be aware of certain behaviors that may unintentionally hinder a child’s growth. By understanding these, parents can adjust strategies to maintain a supportive and positive environment.
Discouraged Approaches
1. Harsh Discipline (e.g., hitting when a child uses inappropriate language)
- Why discouraged: Physical punishment may create distance and increase emotional distress. It is important to remember that children often learn behaviors, including hitting or using bad language, from their parents.
- Suggestion: Use calm explanations and model respectful words. Encourage reflection instead of punishment.
2. Overly Harsh Criticism of Academic Performance
- Why discouraged: Constant negative feedback lowers self-esteem.
- Suggestion: Focus on effort and improvement. Ask, “What did you learn?” or “What’s one step you can try next time?”
3. Comparing Children with Others
- Why discouraged: Comparisons create jealousy and anxiety.
- Suggestion: Highlight your child’s unique strengths and set personal growth goals.
4. Ignoring Teacher Communication or School Invitations
- Why discouraged: Lack of response signals to children that school is not a priority.
- Suggestion: Even if you cannot attend, send a short reply, ask for updates, or schedule a follow-up call.
5. Overprotection (solving all problems for the child)
- Why discouraged: It prevents independence and resilience.
- Suggestion: Allow children to attempt solutions first and provide guidance only when needed.
6. Inconsistent Reinforcement at Home
- Why discouraged: Sending mixed messages between home and school confuses children and reduces the effectiveness of school rules.
- Suggestion: Align with teachers on expectations and reinforce school values consistently at home, e.g., regarding homework, behavior, and respect.
7. Ignoring or Minimizing School Policies
- Why discouraged: If children see parents disregarding rules like academic integrity, restorative practices, or child protection policies, they may not take them seriously.
- Suggestion: Familiarize yourself with Parent Handbook, Year-Level Handbook, and key policies, and reinforce these expectations at home. Eg. Hair color, nail extensions, etc.
8. Excessive Pressure on Achievement
- Why discouraged: Pushing children too hard academically or in extracurriculars can cause stress, anxiety, and loss of intrinsic motivation.
- Suggestion: Set realistic goals, celebrate effort over results, and encourage a balanced approach, including hobbies, social time, and rest.
Let us continue to walk alongside our children, celebrating their growth, supporting their challenges, and sharing their joys. Together, home and school create a learning environment where every child can flourish.
Warm regards,
Lily Liu
Head of XLIS
Email: lily.liu@xalis.com
WeChat: lily6_sunshine
September 16th, 2025
