Thank goodness teachers have different teaching styles, because our children benefit from these differences. It helps them realize that all relationships and communication styles are unique. For instance, some teachers will inform parents of every infraction throughout the day. While others will not inform you of a problem until it is almost too late. Our family has been exposed with one extreme to the other, but most communicate on the middle road - they notify you when there is a consistent behavior issue.

This is also true when it comes to academics. My personal feeling on this, is that it is up to the parent to pay attention to the grades their kids are bringing home. The teacher has an average of 22 kids to teach, they may not notice an inconsistency as quickly as you might. When you notice an inconsistency, ask your child questions. Find out if they went over the work in class afterwards and if they now understand. If they don't, spend a little extra time going over it with them. If needed, contact the teacher and see if they can give you some advice on things you can do at home to help.

I remember when one of my kids brought home a low grade on something we thought she had mastered. We were considering limiting her after school activities so she could study more. Luckily, I emailed the teacher and found out that most of the students in the class did poorly. The teacher mentioned they were trying a new method and she didn't expect the kids to understand it right away. She assured me that they were not recorded grades and that my child was doing fine. It made me realize how important it is to check with the teacher before deciding on restricting after school activities or handing out a punishment.

In addition, if your child is having some difficulties, the earlier it is addressed, the better. Investigate and see if you can find out the reason. Some kids learning styles differ from the teaching style in the classroom. Some kids may need a little extra help and others may have a learning disability. When you work with the teacher, problems can typically be addressed sooner and resolved more quickly.

Typically, within the first few months you begin to understand how your child's teacher deals with behavior issues and academics. When progress reports come around, address any issues as quickly as possible. When a teacher and a parent work as a team, everyone benefits.

Cammie's blog site http://www.MomsMaterial.com gives moms ideas they want. She talks books for kids and moms, party ideas, school, parenting, great gifts ideas and how to look good doing it all.