For schools

How to write notes parents love to read, with examples

A teacher’s note is often the part of the day a parent reads twice. It does not need to be long. It needs to show you noticed their child.

Four simple rules

• Lead with the child, not the activity
• Be specific: one real detail beats three general ones
• Keep it short: two or three sentences
• Use the child’s name and your own voice

Before and after

• Before: “Had a good day. Participated in activities.” After: “Ama counted the blocks to ten today, then built a tower that stayed up.”
• Before: “Was upset in the morning.” After: “Kojo missed you after drop-off, then settled with the puzzles and was smiling by snack time.”

Saying difficult things

Start with what happened, then what you did, then what happens next. Keep blame out and facts in. Offer to talk at pick-up if it needs more than a few lines.

Making time for it

Notes are easier when they are written in the moment, not at the end of the day. In toddlepath a teacher’s note is one tap from the child, and families read it with the rest of the day.