For me, teaching is one of the most important jobs in the world. Making a difference in a child's life is a huge privilege. There are many key attributes to being an effective teacher, but for me some of the key attributes are communicating effectively and establishing good relationships, guiding children's behaviour, creating a good environment for learning and being well organised. There are many other factors that must be considered to become not just a good teacher but a great teacher. Effective communication is a key element of being an effective teacher. Communication can be verbal or non-verbal. Communication not only between your students but also between parents, your colleagues and the community. It's fair to say that we communicate in our daily lives, so it makes sense to use the same principles in teaching; to establish good relationships and trust. If we are more involved in our students' home lives and interests, we will understand and build great relationships. Understanding their background, children's strengths and weaknesses, will establish a better relationship with them. If we show children that we care about the person they are, they will respect and trust us. Effective communication between families and educators requires time, effort, and energy (Arthur, Beecher, Death, Dockett, & Farmer, 2008, p 49). Not only do we need to develop good communication by interacting directly with parents, but also by keeping them actively involved. Or inviting them to stay and play with their child; organize parent/teacher evenings, post information on noticeboards, send information home with students via newsletters or with children, invite parents on assembly trips, etc. This...... middle of paper......, L., Beecher , B., Morte, E., Dockett, S., & Farmer S. (2008). Curriculum and planning in early childhood settings (4th ed.). South Melbourne, Victoria: Nelsons Australia Pty Ltd Barry, K., & King, L. (1997). Beginning Teaching (2nd ed.). Katoomba, NSW: Social Science Press.Beaty, J. J, (2000), Skills for Preschool Teachers (6th ed.). Columbus, Ohio: Merrill Publishing CompanyKearns, K., & Austin, B. (2007). Birth of the Great School. Sydney, NSW: Pearson Education Australia.Kaltman, G S. (2006) Help! For teachers of young children. Thousand Oaks, California: Corwin Press.March, C. (2004), Becoming a Teacher: Knowledge, Skills, and Issues (3rd ed.). Frenchs Forest, Australia: Pearson Education Australia.Teachers Vision (2010). The definitive organized classroom. Retrieved from http://www.teachervision.fen.com/classroom-management/school/4731.html?detoured=1