If you had a crap day teaching, would you appreciate a note

[HopefulHamster]

My child is in year 3. One of his classmates completely trashed the classroom after lunch break, to the point the teacher was in tears (and apparently apologised to the kids but told them why she was upset) and they all had to go and watch a film with another class for the rest of the day.

This child is normally a bit mischievous but not this level of naughty. I really feel for her! There are two others in the same class that sometimes cause this level of trouble. It can't be easy.

The kids have a planner you can write notes in for the teacher. I was thinking of putting in a note saying today will be better or, I dunno, something.

But that's just truly naff isn't it? And she'd probably feel bad that the parents knew (as the kids came out and told us all). So I just shouldn't do anything?

[YogiYoni]

I'd send her something totally unrelated to today. A thank you card 'for supporting your DS through his first few weeks in her class', box of chocolates 'to share in the staff room', huge bottle of gin...?

[HopefulHamster]

I quite like those ideas! Although I'm not sure I could justify them yet, but maybe I could do it soon.

[YogiYoni]

You can I took chocolate into DS2's nursery staff last week just to say thank you, and I'll be sneaking gin to DS1's this week (I know her a bit outside of school though)

[willyfog]

I don't think I'd like the idea that the parents felt sorry for me, although I know the sentiment is coming from a kind place. However, I would be delighted to receive a note of appreciation about how you felt I was supporting your DC.

[HopefulHamster]

That's what gave me pause.

I think I will try to make a gesture of thanks next week so it's not too reactionary, but if she's still feeling rubbish it might give some uplift.

[JoJoSM2]

Yogi has a good idea - something appreciative unrelated to the awful situation will make her feel better.

[ouryve]

A little not of appreciation would be great.

After reaching year 9, I've realised that the shit Octobers for DS1 are less settling in and more seasonal shite. He even went mute on me, this evening, after wearing colanders as hats an hour previously, in IKEA.

[elephantoverthehill]

I think just a simple note of 'Well done and thank you' in the planner. Or whatever is more appropriate. It is the acknowledgment that matters imo.

[LonginesPrime]

I don't think I'd like the idea that the parents felt sorry for me

I agree. I also think 'well done' will look patronising. And she's likely feeling utterly shit already so it won't help to know that all the parents know what happened (she will want to forget it and have a better day and a fresh start tomorrow).

But a little note in the planner saying how much your DC is enjoying learning about x would be lovely.

[HopefulHamster]

All I did today was write 'X enjoyed reading Captain Underpants last night' (we have to record what they read) and another line saying 'X also said they enjoyed learning French this week - thanks!'