Teachers and Parents Unite to Improve Early Detection of Learning Difficulties

In an effort to enhance children’s learning outcomes, collaboration between teachers and parents has become a key focus in many elementary schools. Through close cooperation, early signs of learning difficulties such as delayed reading skills, trouble following instructions, or low motivation can be identified more quickly.

Nurhayati, Principal of Cendana Elementary School, stated, “Teachers observe children in class, while parents see their behavior at home both perspectives are essential.” With this two-way communication, interventions can be more targeted, such as providing additional tutoring or personalized learning approaches.

Harapan Bangsa Elementary School recently launched a program called “Home and School in Harmony,” encouraging regular communication between teachers and parents. Through monthly meetings and student progress reports, early indicators of learning difficulties can be identified sooner.

Grade 2 teacher Rina Suryani reported positive outcomes: “Some children who once struggled with reading have shown real improvement thanks to consistent support from parents at home,” she said. The program also helps teachers understand psychological and environmental factors that influence student achievement.

Cases of children with reading challenges (mild dyslexia) in several elementary schools have declined following the implementation of active communication systems between teachers and parents. Teachers provide regular academic progress reports, while parents share feedback on their children’s study habits at home.
Educational psychologist Dr. Lestari Utami emphasized, “Early detection won’t work without family involvement. Parents need to be sensitive to changes in their children’s learning behavior.” This collaboration allows schools to offer tailored support that meets each child’s unique learning needs

To strengthen parents’ ability to recognize signs of learning challenges, Melati Elementary School organized a training session titled “Becoming a Teacher’s Partner in Understanding Children.” During the event, teachers shared their experiences identifying early symptoms of learning difficulties such as frequent forgetfulness, reluctance to write, or frustration during study time.
The training attracted more than 50 parents and received positive feedback. One participant, Dian, shared, “I realized my child isn’t lazy he just needs a different way to learn.” The school hopes to hold similar programs regularly to build stronger home–school collaboration. Modern education demands transparency and cooperation between teachers and parents. In the digital era, many schools are using communication apps to monitor students’ progress weekly.

Teachers can report learning challenges instantly, while parents respond with insights about home behavior or study habits.
The Head of the Semarang City Education Department remarked, “This digital collaboration model allows faster and more responsive detection of learning difficulties.” With ongoing communication, students facing learning barriers can receive timely and appropriate support.