Can I communicate directly with my child’s teacher?

• In Person at Drop-off/Pick-up: A quick chat at drop-off or pick-up can be a great opportunity to exchange updates. Our teachers make themselves available during these times for brief conversations. For example, in the morning you might let us know “She had a rough night’s sleep, so she might be cranky” or at afternoon pick-up the teacher might share one fun anecdote from the day. We do ask for your understanding that during busy drop-off and pick-up moments, teachers are also supervising children, so conversations might be short. If you need a longer discussion, we’ll happily schedule time.
  
  
• Through the App Messaging: Our Brightwheel app has a messaging feature that allows you to send a direct message to your child’s teacher or the center’s admin. If you have a non-urgent question or want to pass along a note (“We’ll be on vacation next week” or “Can you remind Sophia to use the potty?”), you can send it through the app and the teacher will respond, usually during a break or by the end of the day. It’s a handy tool for ongoing communication.
  
  
• Scheduled Meetings/Calls: If you have something substantial you’d like to discuss – for instance, a developmental concern, a change in routine at home, or any issue that requires focus – we are more than willing to set up a meeting or phone call. You can request a meeting with the teacher (and a director can join if needed) at a time that works for both of you, perhaps during nap time or right after pick-up one day. We can also arrange a phone call during a teacher’s break or after hours. We truly welcome these discussions because working together helps us provide the best care.
  
  
• Regular Conferences: Playto schedules formal parent-teacher conferences every four months (approximately three times a year) for each child. During these conferences, you’ll sit down with the teacher (in person or via phone/Zoom if preferred) and discuss your child’s progress, milestones, and any goals or concerns. The teacher will often have samples of artwork or assessments to share, and it’s a wonderful dedicated time to talk without distractions. Of course, you don’t need to wait for a conference if something is on your mind, but these regular check-ins are part of our commitment to keep you informed and involved.
  
  

Never hesitate to reach out – we want you to feel completely comfortable communicating with us. Whether it’s a small question (“Did he nap today?”) or a bigger conversation (“How can we work together on biting, which he’s been doing at home?”), we’re here to listen and collaborate. Your insight as a parent is invaluable, and we aim to be your partners in your child’s care and early education.