To 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 qualities to being an effective teacher, but for me some of the key qualities are effective communication and building good relationships, guiding children's behavior, creating a good learning environment and being well organized. There are many other factors that must also be considered to become not just a good teacher but an excellent teacher. Effective communication is a key part of being an effective teacher. Communication can be verbal or non-verbal. Communication not only between your students but also between parents, colleagues and the community. It's fair to say that we communicate in our daily lives, so it makes sense that we use the same principles in teaching; to build good relationships and trust. If we are more engaged in the home life and interests of our students, we will understand and build great relationships. Understanding their background, their strengths and their weaknesses will allow you to establish a better relationship with them. If we show children that we care about who they are, they will respect and trust us. Effective communication between families and educators takes time, effort, and energy (Arthur, Beecher, Death, Dockett, & Farmer, 2008, p 49). We must not only develop good communication by interacting directly with parents, but also by keeping them actively involved. . Either by inviting them to stay and play with their child; organize parent/teacher evenings, write information on notice boards, send information home with the student via a newsletter or with the child, invite parents to outings for meetings, etc. This...... middle of paper ......, L., Beecher , B., Death, E., Dockett, S., & Farmer S. (2008). Curriculum and planning in early childhood settings (4th ed.). South Melbourne, Victoria: Nelsons Australia Pty LtdBarry, K. and King, L. (1997). Beginning Teaching (2nd ed.). Katoomba, NSW: Social Science Press. Beaty, J. J, (2000), Skills for preschool teachers (6th ed.). Columbus, OH: Merrill Publishing CompanyKearns, K., & Austin, B. (2007). Birth of the great school. Sydney, New South Wales: Pearson Education Australia. Kaltman, G S. (2006) Help! For teachers of young children. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press. March, C. (2004), Becoming a Teacher: Knowledge, Skills and Issues (3rd ed.). Frenchs Forest, Australia: Pearson Education Australia.Teachers Vision (2010). The ultimate organized classroom. Retrieved from http://www.teachervision.fen.com/classroom-management/school/4731.html?detoured=1