How to Start Building a Strong Parent-Teacher Relationship in Preschool

When a child starts a new child care program or preschool, most parents focus on helping their child adjust to the new environment. But there’s another relationship being built at the same time that can make a huge difference in the experience for everyone involved. The relationship between parents and teachers. Strong parent-teacher relationships in preschool don’t usually happen by accident. They develop over time through communication, trust, and shared goals. And the best time to start building that relationship is early - long before challenges or concerns arise.

When parents and teachers feel comfortable communicating with each other, it creates a much smoother experience for the child as well. One of the simplest ways to begin building this relationship is through open and respectful communication. Introduce yourself, ask questions, and take a moment to learn your child’s teacher’s preferred way to connect. Some teachers communicate best through daily apps, others through quick conversations at pickup, and some prefer email for longer updates. Understanding how communication works helps set clear expectations from the beginning.

Sharing helpful information about your child can also make a big difference. Teachers appreciate knowing about routines, personality traits, comfort items, or anything that may help them support your child during the day. These small details help teachers build connection and respond thoughtfully to each child’s needs.

Consistency also builds trust. Simple things like reading classroom messages, responding to teacher communication, and following program routines show that you are working as a team. When teachers see that families are engaged and supportive, it creates a stronger sense of partnership. It’s also important to remember that positive communication matters just as much as problem-solving conversations. Taking a moment to thank a teacher, acknowledge something your child enjoyed, or share a positive experience can go a long way in building mutual respect. Over time, these small interactions create a foundation of trust.

Strong parent-teacher relationships don’t mean parents and teachers will always see every situation the same way. What matters most is that both sides feel comfortable communicating openly and working together to support the child. When families and teachers approach the relationship as a partnership, children benefit the most. Starting that connection early helps create a positive, supportive environment that lasts throughout the school year. If you're looking for tips and prompts to open and build communication with your child's teacher(s) you may be interested in our Child Care Communication Toolkit.