Even though I may come off as fairly seasoned in this whole parenting scene, I still cringe and sigh when I get the dreaded “call from the school.” Whether it’s for tardiness, information, or naughty behavior, I always feel as though I am the one being called into the principal’s office (well, often, I AM called into the principal’s office) and I haven’t done anything to deserve it!
I’ve told my kids that I hate to be surprised by that phone call so if they even suspect that a call might be coming home, they need to get to me first. I much prefer having them come clean and give me their version of the story than to get the “do you know what your child did today?” speech on the telephone while I’m trying to cook dinner. I’m the same with report cards—if they tell me they are struggling in a class or give me a general idea of what to expect on the report cards, I’m better prepared to handle the reality.
I’m really into creating open dialogue and building relationships with the folks at my kids’ schools—even though we’re into the high school scene now. The good thing is that they feel like they can call me and get a response any time they feel the need—the bad thing is that they feel like they can call me any time they need to! I remind myself that I’m definitely NOT in the “ignorance is bliss” parent camp and that I really do want to know, but boy do I hate hearing that principal’s or teacher’s or guidance counselor’s voice on the other end of the line. Couldn’t they e-mail me? Send me a text message? How about a bottle of wine or a bouquet of flowers with a “would love to chat soon” message attached?
I don’t want you to think my kids are little hellions, I don’t get calls on a daily or even weekly basis, but my offspring are human enough that I have enough experience to write this blog. I’ve had calls that ranged from all-I-could-do-to-not-laugh all the way to I’m-researching-wilderness-camp-as-we-chat. I’ve learned the appropriate tone to use during those phone calls—but no matter how seasoned I may be, I’m still never quite prepared for the “This is Mrs. X, calling about your son/daughter.” They don’t do that when kids go off to college, do they?
See Also: Who Is Responsible For Your Child’s Education?