Dear Teacher...

[Amanda Gray]

I am trying to build empathy and understanding in my under-graduate teachers for children with diverse needs and abilities. I want them to be able to see their students through parents' eyes. I was just wondering if any of you would like to write a "Dear Teacher" letter to my students that I could read to them, helping them understand your child (who has ADD/HD) from your perspective. And make any suggestions about what you would want the teacher to do...

No need for names... just tell them anything you would want to tell your child's teacher.

[summscott]

sure when do you need this? Email me back.

[Amanda Gray]

I will be workshopping behaviour in the next 3 weeks, so anytime... I will be able to use it next semester as well. Just post it here if you don't mind others reading it. Might get the ball rolling.

(I have sent you a message as well)

[hope4josh]

What a wonderful idea! Here's my letter....

Dear Teacher,

By now you have had the chance to observe and interact with my son. You might find him to be goofy, high-strung, impulsive, reactive, or just plan irritating. But, no matter what your thoughts are about my beautiful boy, please remember what you have been hired to do. I put my child in your hands to guide him, teach him, inspire him, and help him grow. You cannot do this if you don't have an understanding of how his is made. On the days you feel like you can't take another minute of him, reach out to him. When he's interupted you over and over again, be gentle. When he can't stay in his seat another moment, send him on an errand. When he's not really getting social cues from his peers and struggling relating to them, talk to all the children without singling him out. When he can't seem to focas, touch his shoulder gently without saying a word. When he says he hates school, don't take it personally, he just hates feeling so frustrated by the world around him that he can't turn off.

And lastly, please remember that this child is the apple of someone's eye. They bring us so much joy, even with the difficulties they have to indure every single day. You could be the one teacher that could change my childs life forever, or you could be the one that could tear down his self-esteem for years. Watch your words. Our children never forget a negitive comment. Remember why you want to teach, and realize you will see more and more children like mine. They want to do good. They want to succeed. They want to please everyone. You could be that one who could make a difference forever by reaching out to my child. I truly believe that the success you find in him will carry you on for many years.

Sincerely...an ADD parent.

[Amanda Gray]

Thank you so much, this is wonderful!... I will share this with my students...

Anyone else have a letter they want to share?

[Amanda Gray]

I used this in my tutorials last week. It brought some great, thoughtful responses. The last paragraph of your letter really struck a chord and helped put things into perspective. I was a great discussion point. Thank you so much.

[Denise]

Hi Amanda,
I would tell the teachers to stop asking my daughter to sit still. She fiddles, and she fusses. That is just part of her. I would ask that the teacher doesn't get upset if she sits on her legs, instead of having her feet dangling. I would tell the teacher that mornings are difficult and to please ease her into the day.
I would ask her to not bug her about her agenda, it's a lost cause. Really, I do know that it's a communication tool but she see's it as a tool for getting her into trouble. She doesn't pass it on. If there is something important, take the time to call me, please.
I would also like to say that she is really bright, and knows if you are patronizing her, so don't bother, cause she won't respect you and for my daughter, it really is necessary for the teacher to earn it, not demand it.
Thanks!
Denise

[Amanda Gray]

Thanks, Denise.... That is certainly something teachers need to know!