Re: If a teacher
It's quite a challenge to use the right words with parents whose children are a little 'tricky' - not that I am saying your child is.
I used to find it SO hard to give feedback to parents at the end of the day, as you have 30 children, 30 parents at the door and its just not the right time usually. I think its really important for adults to remember that children can have 'off' days too and I would usually only speak to the parent if I was concerned about a particular behaviour pattern over a few days.
I always start with a positive or two, even if they are really small like 'lining up nicely' or 'smiling when singing the hometime song'.
For the following situations I say:
Hitting/kicking/physically harming another child: ' Bob has had a tricky day today, sometimes forgetting to keep his hands and feet to himself, some children were hurt and upset, we talked about it and Bob said he would try and remember for tomorrow, I just thought you should know and perhaps if there is anything you need to talk to me about we could have a chat about it.
Defiant behaviour/unresponsive/not following instructions: Jill has had a bit of wobbly day today, not her usual cheery self, we had a little chat but Jill found it difficult to share her feelings, it's probably an off day for her, but I just thought I aught to let you know and perhaps if there is anything you think I should know too we could have a little chat about it.
I have one particular child who is not too happy with being in Year 1, he misses the 'play' elements of Reception and he is a challenge everyday. I don't see the need to mention this to mum everyday, I always tell her what hes enjoyed doing or has done really well during the day, but if hes been upset or quite defiant to the point of interupting learning, then I will have a quick word, usually without the child present.