When your child starts school, not only is it daunting for them but as a parent, you are also overwhelmed by school admin and what is expected of you. From non-uniform days to when you need to bring things into school for Harvest there is always something to be thinking about, and with the invention of WhatsApp, came WhatsApp groups. You might have already been invited to join the school year WhatsApp group. At first, it may seem like it is a great resource to have, and a chance to chat amongst the parents. They will also save your bacon countless times as a reminder when you may forget. But I wanted to share with you some of the do’s and don’ts of the WhatsApp group so it can remain a valuable resource and not something you dread.
Don’t discuss particular topics
When it comes to a school WhatsApp group you have to be mindful that there could be as many as 30 members in one group. Perhaps even more in some cases. You are all different people, with different views and outlooks. So it is worth noting that some subjects are just not for the school WhatsApp group. Think politics and religion, to name a few. Everyone is entitled to an opinion, but save yours for the people you know you can talk openly with.
Do use the WhatsApp group as a resource
The group will be there to remind parents of all of the school admin things that we can all easily forget. On-uniform days, harvest festivals, school picture days, etc. So use it for this reason. You might want to be the one that casually messages reminders for things like this, or ask when certain things are taking place if you have lost letters or correspondence. It is designed to be there to help you as a parent and for your children, so use it.
Don’t discuss issues you might have with other parents or children
Let’s face it, kids fall out. They argue and they may fight or get into trouble. But the school WhatsApp group is not the platform to discuss these things. Sure, you may want to reach out to the relevant parent to find a way to resolve the situation, but the rest of the class’s parents do not need to know or get involved with it.
Don’t discuss other parents in there
Some people gossip, it’s a fact. But the school WhatsApp group is not the place for it. If you do want to discuss with other parents or express your opinions and thoughts, then do so with people you know you can trust. Or better still, when it comes to other parents, sometimes it is best to keep your opinion to yourself.
Do ask questions
Sometimes we can forget, and so do ask questions when you want an answer that you can’t find the answer. But, don’t be lazy. If it is something that you can find yourself on the school website or on the newsletter then don’t be lazy and ask the group. People will start to get annoyed with pointless messages.
Don’t be boastful
We are all proud of our children, there is no denying that. But the WhatsApp group is not a place to be boastful about how great your little one is. Often we have no idea what is going on with other parents and their home situations. They may be struggling with their mental health or finding things hard. Boastful messages, albeit coming from a good place, may do more harm than good to others. Share those achievements with your family and close friends.
Don’t try and sell things on there
You might want to get rid of old uniforms or toys your child no longer plays with, but the school WhatsApp group is not your personal selling platform. Sure, mentioning the odd thing if you think there could be genuine interest might not be so bad, but avoid listing endless things on there for sale.
Do make sure you are messaging the right group
There is nothing more embarrassing than sending a message to the wrong group, especially if it can be inappropriate. Always check you are messaging the right group. Even if you do get to the message and delete it, you may not have realised who actually read it.
WhatsApp groups are great to help you through the school years, but as long as you treat them for what they are, they are a valuable resource to have.
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