I would tell the parent(s) good things their child is doing during the school day. Students can complete a self-assessment at the end of the day that goes home with them and gets signed by you and their parents and then returned the next morning. This allows parents to be involved and understand how their child is performing during the school day. If the self-assessment is not returned the next day, then notify the parents with a phone call during school hours. The parent may be judging you based on what the student is telling them when they go home. I would always start the conversations off by addressing the child's positive behaviors and then inform the parent(s) on misbehaviors you are working with their Childs on to improve their academic, behavioral, or social performance during the school day. Keeping the conversation respectful and formal allows you to set the tone that you are there to support their child and offer guidance.

I would keep the parent updated just as much as the other parents. With information about how they can come in and volunteer in the class, or how their child is doing academically. I feel that once they know in their own mind and heart that their child is doing well in the class, they will loosen up on me.

I would try to focus on the positive about the student with the parents. If there are negatives always refer to them after you have told them about the positive behavior the student exhibited. This way they do not feel that you are just saying the negatives about their child you are also recognizing the positives.

I would recommend asking to meet with the parent and allowing them to be brutally honest. A lot of times they are just confused and some clairifying can make a big difference.