From Newsletters to Relationships: Rethinking Family Communication

Most schools and child care centers send newsletters. Many post updates on social media. Some use apps to share photos and reminders. Yet even with these tools, families can still feel out of the loop from what is happening in their child’s classroom. Communication is happening, but the connection is not.

The goal is not to abandon newsletters. It is to rethink how we use them and to build communication systems that inform families and invite them into genuine partnerships.

Communication Is the Foundation of Partnership

In Partnering for Success, Tricia Shelton reminds us that a family teacher conference is, at its core, a conversation designed to build understanding through shared speaking and listening. That same principle applies to everyday communication. When information only flows one way, families are informed but not engaged.

Shelton also highlights that communication strengthens trust when it includes perspective sharing and responsiveness. A monthly newsletter that simply lists events does not create trust. However, a communication system that invites questions, feedback, and shared goal settings is important.

Similarly, School-to-Home Connections emphasizes that consistent communication helps families better support their child’s developmental growth by understanding classroom expectations and goals. When families know what is being taught and why, they are better equipped to extend their learning at home.

The shift we are calling for is simple but powerful: move from broadcasting information to cultivating relationships.

Making Newsletters Worth Reading

Newsletters still matter. Families need timely updates about events, curriculum themes, policies, and classroom routines. However, the format and tone (and subject lines!) determine whether families open them.

Drawing guidance from The Early Childhood Director’s Guide to Solving Everyday Challenges, by Thomasa Bond, EdD, leaders are encouraged to create systems that are clear, consistent, and family-centered. That means:

• Keep newsletters concise and visually organized.
• Use headings and bullet points for easy scanning.
• Include specific examples of what children are learning.
• Add a short reflection question or invitation for family response.
• Share at least one positive classroom story.

Instead of listing “We are working on fine motor skills,” consider writing, “This week, children practiced cutting curved lines and stringing beads to strengthen the small muscles they will later use for writing.” Concrete examples help families see the purpose behind the practice.

You might also include a brief prompt such as, “Ask your child to show you how they hold scissors,” or “What shapes can you find together at home?” This transforms information into engagement.

Beyond One-Way Communication

Shelton describes family engagement as requiring intentional opportunities for families to speak and share their expertise. Communication systems should reflect the same philosophy.

Consider adding:

• A short survey link once a quarter.
• An invitation for families to share traditions, interests, or funds of knowledge.
• A rotating “family spotlight” section.
• Open office hours, virtual or in person.

Families are more likely to feel invested when they see their experiences reflected in the classroom.

It is also important to personalize communication when it comes to individual children. Partnering for Success emphasizes the importance of sharing documentation and specific examples of a child’s strengths and needs. Rather than generic comments, offer individualized notes such as, “Today Maya helped a friend clean up blocks without being asked.” Specific feedback builds trust and reinforces partnership.

Tools That Support Communication

The right digital tools can make communication more efficient and engaging. A few commonly used platforms include:

Smore
Pros: Visually appealing newsletter templates, easy to embed photos and videos, simple sharing.
Cons: Limited free version.
Cost: Free basic plan; paid plans start around $99 per year for educators.

Mailchimp
Pros: Professional email marketing tools, analytics to track open rates, customizable templates.
Cons: Can feel complex for beginners.
Cost: Free plan with 500-contact limit; paid plans vary based on contacts.

Padlet
Pros: Interactive bulletin board style platform, families can comment and contribute.
Cons: Less structured for traditional newsletters.
Cost: Limited free version; paid plans start around $8 per month.

ClassDojo or Brightwheel
Pros: Real time updates, messaging features, translation tools.
Cons: Requires families to download and use an app.
Cost: Many features are free; premium features may vary.

The best tool is the one your family will actually use. Consider surveying families about their preferences before committing to a platform.

Individual Communication Matters Just as Much

Group communication keeps families informed. Individual communication builds relationships.

Shelton stresses that teachers should plan opportunities for both teacher-directed and family-directed goals during conferences. The same balance applies to everyday communication. Teachers can share observations and ask families for insight.

For example:

• “We have noticed Liam is very interested in trucks. Do you see this at home?”
• “Sofia seemed tired this week. Has anything changed in her routine?”

Questions like these demonstrate cultural humility and respect for family expertise. They position families as partners, not recipients of information.

Leadership Sets the Tone

Program leaders play a crucial role. The Director’s Guide reminds administrators that communication systems reflect the overall culture of the program. When leaders model responsiveness, transparency, and warmth, teachers are more likely to do the same.

Clear communication expectations, templates, and shared tools can reduce staff stress while increasing consistency for families.

From Information to Relationship

Newsletters are not the problem. Silence is.

Families need to know what is happening in their child’s classroom. They also need to feel seen, heard, and valued. When communication moves from one-way announcements to reciprocal exchange, trust grows. When trust grows, collaboration strengthens. And when collaboration strengthens, children benefit.

The goal is not more communication. It is better communication.