You just finished a great trial lesson. The student laughed, spoke in full sentences, and stayed engaged. But then the parent says… “Thanks—we’ll think about it.”
Even experienced online ESL teachers can lose enrollments not because of poor teaching, but because of unclear communication. Knowing how to explain your teaching style including how and why you teach the way you do is a skill—one that builds trust, attracts long-term clients, and positions you as a professional, not just a tutor.
Sound familiar?
Here’s how to confidently explain your teaching style to parents—so they stick with you.
Why Parents Need to Understand Your Teaching Style
Parents don’t see the world through a teacher’s lens. If they’re expecting grammar drills and get a game-based lesson, they might assume it’s not “real learning.”
That’s why explaining your methods is essential. It helps parents:
- Understand the why behind your choices
- See your lessons as part of a bigger plan
- Feel confident investing in your teaching long-term
“When parents understand the educational purpose behind classroom activities, they’re more likely to support the learning process.”
— National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
What to Explain (and How to Say It)
Here’s a simple structure to help you explain your teaching style clearly and professionally:
1. Your Approach in One Sentence
Start with a simple, jargon-free summary.
💬 “I use an interactive, student-centered approach that builds speaking confidence and supports long-term language growth.”
2. Your Learning Goals
Explain what you’re helping the student achieve—not just today, but over time. You can use the Learning Plan Generator Tool from Florentis Learning to routinely provide updated learning plans to parents to help communicate where you are going.
💬 “My goal is to help your child build strong listening and speaking skills first, then move into reading and writing as their vocabulary and confidence grow.”
In addition, sharing feedback after each class helps parents understand what their child has accomplished. Florentis Learning offers built in feedback templates at the end of each lesson making parent communication quick and easy.
3. How You Teach (Methods & Activities)
Mention key strategies like:
- TPR (Total Physical Response)
- Sentence starters
- Scaffolding grammar naturally through conversation
- Repetition through stories, games, and real-world topics
💬 “You may see us play games or sing songs—that’s because these activities build vocabulary in a fun, memorable way. Then we use that vocabulary in full sentences.”
Handling Common Misunderstandings
Use clear explanations to reframe doubts as strengths. Here’s how:
| Parent Concern | What to Say |
|---|---|
| “It seemed like they were just playing.” | “Games are a structured part of how we build vocabulary and fluency in context.” |
| “They didn’t do much grammar.” | “We teach grammar through usage—so they use it correctly before labeling it.” |
| “They didn’t speak much today.” | “At first, many students need time to listen and absorb before they feel confident to speak. That’s part of the process.” |
Looking for more ways to support speaking development? Read From Shy to Confident: Daily Speaking Routines That Work.
Show, Don’t Just Tell
Give parents something they can see:
- ✅ A one-page “How I Teach” handout
- ✅ A screenshot or short video from a lesson
- ✅ Sample lesson plan showing structure and goals
- ✅ A link to your curriculum (like Florentis Learning)
If you use the Florentis Learning curriculum, you can say:
💬 “I use a structured curriculum called Florentis Learning that includes reading, writing, grammar, and speaking. Each level is designed to prepare students for Cambridge exams and build real-world communication skills.”
When and Where to Share Your Teaching Style
- During a trial lesson wrap-up
- In your Learning Plan that you share with parents after your trial lesson. Check out the free Placement Assessment and Learning Plan template available from Florentis Learning.
- In a welcome email or message
- On your website or teacher profile
- In an intro video for new families
Remember: repetition builds trust. Don’t be afraid to say the same thing in different ways.
Final Thoughts
Explaining your teaching style is one of the most important tools in your teacher toolkit. It helps you go from “nice tutor” to trusted educator—the kind parents return to again and again.
And when you pair that with a professional curriculum like Florentis Learning, you’re not just teaching English. You’re offering a clear path to progress—and parents will see the value.
Check out 6 Tips for Engaging the Families of English Language Learners for more ideas on how to communicate with parents.
Want to Make It Easier?
Try Florentis Learning’s done-for-you lesson plans and structured units designed for online ESL teachers.
👉 Explore the curriculum now and show parents you’re serious about student success.
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