This is a very difficult situation. I would pull the parent aside and thank her for all that she does, but remind her that there are certain rules that EVERY student needs to follow in order for others to feel they are being treated the same.

I would remind the parent nicely that, while this behavior may be appropriate for her daughter at home, and as a single child, it cannot be tolerated in the classroom. Give the parent some perspective: what if all the students did these little things? It can get out of hand quickly. The rules apply to everyone, and unfortunately if the parent cannot respect these boundaries, the parent cannot be in the room.

I encountered a situation similar to this. It is important to set boundaries, even with parents. It is wonderful that they want to help but make sure they know what you need help with and what you don't need help with.

Hi LeWuVy, I would conference with the parent to let them know how important it is to consistently implement classroom rules and procedures. Perhaps you have assumed they have observed the classroom enough to pick up on these rules/procedures but have never explicitly stated them to the parent. During the conference, I would start by making sure the parent knows how much you appreciate their help. I would tell them that you tweaked the classroom rules/procedures a bit lately and that you would like them to look over it. Explain that, as another authority figure in the classroom, you wanted to make sure you both are on the same page so that these aspects of the classroom can be implemented consistently among all students. Explain that you would really appreciate their help in this area. Give them a take home sheet they can look over to reinforce what you are saying. Melissa

I think it would be beneficial to have that conversation with the parent because it shows favoritism with the student, once one student does it the other students may want to join in, and because it is not in the parent's place to tell the student how to behave (in a negative way) within your classroom. I would consider having it in a formal setting that way the parent understands the role as teacher and parent.

I might start by redirecting the student in front of the mom and reminding the student of the classroom rules. This way the mom will be reminded of the rules and who the teacher is without a direct confrontation.

I would have a conversation with the parent and let them know that you love having them around to help with things in the classroom, but that you don't want their child breaking the rules of the classroom and setting a bad example for the other students. Ask her to stay quiet while class is going on.

Yes, her help is amazing for teachers who have many students. I understand her child is in the classroom but when it comes to your classroom, you are the teacher. Have a pleasant conversation with the parent to remind them that the rules are for all students and should be enforced by the teacher.

I feel like you need to pull the parent aside and let her know that you are very grateful for all she does for the class and to help out but the rules are in place in the class for all students to follow to ensure safety, order, and an effective educational environment. I would remind the parent that while in the classroom it is your job to keep the students safe and to teach them and that as a guest in the classroom it is important that she enforces the rules posted in the classroom for all students. I would monitor her behavior after the conversation and if the behavior continues i would ask the parent not to return to the classroom to volunteer until she is able to support your classroom in a respectful manner and follow the posted rules.

I would explain to her that her work has been greatly appreciated but she needs to know her boundaries.

I would suggest having a conversation with the parent and reminding them, that while their help is appreciated, there are classroom rules that ALL students need to abide by. I would perhaps tip off the principal that this is occurring so you have full backing and support before having this conversation.

I would have a talk with the mom and remind her that she is there to help and that you are the teacher at the end of this.