How to write an effective email to parents and caregivers
By Amanda Morin
Expert reviewed by Mark J. Griffin, PhD
Anatomy of an effective email to parents and caregiversPDF
Emailing with your students’ families can be an efficient way to keep in touch, especially when you have good news to share. Positive news can help to build trusting relationships and family engagement.
But what if an update isn’t so positive? It can be uncomfortable to raise a concern. But you might choose to send an email if it’s minor or if the family has told you they prefer email updates. (Keep in mind your school’s policy about where and when to use a child’s name in an email.)
Still, emails can leave plenty of room for misinterpretation. See this example email to learn how to frame your message to get the best response. You can use it as a guide as you write your own.
Key takeaways
Explore a teacher’s guide to having difficult conversations with families.
Learn how to break down barriers to better engage with families.
Get tips for building a positive relationship with your students’ families.
About the author
About the author
Amanda Morin is the author of “The Everything Parent’s Guide to Special Education” and the former director of thought leadership at Understood. As an expert and writer, she helped build Understood from its earliest days.
Reviewed by
Reviewed by
Mark J. Griffin, PhD was the founding headmaster of Eagle Hill School, a school for children with specific learning disabilities.
