Everybody knows what the 3 R's of teaching are - reading, writing, and 'rithmetic. But educators-parents don't totally understand that in order to teach these basic subjects successfully, they must constantly be working to develop respect and responsibility in their students or children. No longer can it be assumed that children develop these attitudes. Plus, teachers-parents must learn how to build positive relationships with their students or children. Strong teacher-student and parent -child relationships are the key to fostering a positive and safe learning environment where much learning will take place and where all students will become capable, connected, and contributing members of their classrooms, school, or family.