Have you ever written an email to a teacher or coach about a concern regarding your child? My husband and I sent a few of those, but I know from experience as a teacher and coach’s wife that many parent emails are not taken too seriously because of how the parent communicated and quite honestly because the inquiries or demands were unrealistic and downright silly.

For example, check out these parent emails from a teacher and coach (CoachPhilly) who has shared some of his emails from parents on Tiktok:

Before you write that letter to the teacher or coach, think twice. Ask yourself a few questions:

How will stepping into this situation help my child grow in their independence and problem-solving ability? (If the answer is “I don’t know” or “It probably doesn’t”, then don’t write the email)

Is my child’s mental, emotional or physical safety at risk? (If the answer is yes, then schedule a face-to-face meeting because this is an issue that needs to be dealt with in person, not in an email)

Am I writing this in anger? (If the answer is yes, then don’t send it right away. Write it if you have to vent, but wait 24 hours before deciding if you should send it. And even then, opt to schedule a meeting face-to-face.)

If the email you are writing is merely discussing logistics or facts or planning for events, write away! But honestly, parents, if you have a concern that is important enough to talk to a teacher or coach about, a concern that makes you doubt or question their abilities or strategies, then please please have the courage to meet with them in person. Emails rarely resolve heavy issues. Face-to-face meetings where two or three parties can talk through concerns and reach resolutions for everyone involved will be the most helpful for your child.

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