National Education week takes place from November 15-19 this year, and one focus includes parent involvement. Project Appleseed runs a national campaign for public school improvement and has National Parent Involvement Day on November 18. They have been commemorating this day since 1993 to bring awareness to the importance of parent involvement in education.
Being actively involved in your children’s education should be something you do every day regardless of their grade level. Parents may wonder how to take a more active part in their child’s school and if it is necessary. Gary B. Wilson’s book, Organizing Parent Groups, demonstrates that parent involvement techniques improve a child’s educational experience. Wilson also states that as long as your child remains in school, parents should stay involved. Parents can make positive changes as part of a group. A group dynamic will help parents who may be hesitant or lack the confidence to join. Organizing Parent Groups offers tips on how parents can participate and how to make the group more meaningful.
Some simple things parents to be more involved with their children’s education include:
- Get to Know the Teachers: By getting to know your child’s teachers, you can stay aware of lesson plans. Understanding the curriculum will help you continue the learning process with your child at home. Do not place too much pressure on your children to memorize subjects. Make your home learning interactive and fun where you and your child both learn.
- Helping Children with Homework: Education holds a connection between the school and home. According to Healthline, research shows that too much homework negatively impacts children’s health. To prevent stress at a young age, helping your child with homework will give them confidence knowing they have your support. Let them be a kid and have fun when they complete their assignments. Childhood stress can have long-term ramifications.
- Attend Parent-Teacher Conferences: Mostly, parent-teacher conferences address students’ performance and behaviors. The discussions involve potential solutions which make them dreaded. As a parent, you have a right to meet with the teacher. Request to attend a parent-teacher conference to learn about your child’s progress even if they have good grades.
- Participate in School Events: If the school has a “Meet the Teacher” event, attend it and tour the school to get further involved in your child’s education. Also, visit open houses and science fairs at the school to learn more and take on an active role.
- Encourage Children to be Active: See if your child wants to engage in clubs or activities at the school. If they want to play sports, encourage them to try out. Schools offer different clubs for all interests, which give your child a chance to become more well-rounded socially.
- Attend School Board Meetings: You can stay informed about your children’s education by attending school board meetings. Parents will gain insight into the school board’s decision-making and planning. You can also address concerns you have in front of the school board members.
- Join the Parent-Teacher Association: The PTA has a mission to give all children an opportunity for academic success. PTA members include families, students, administrators, community leaders, and businesses. Joining the PTA will increase your involvement in the education system.
- Volunteer at the School: To get a closer look at the school system and your children’s education, you can offer to volunteer. You can help with events at the school or tutor along with other positions. Seeing how you can volunteer at the school will get you a front-row seat to view your child’s education.
- Spread the Word: Start by getting more people involved in children’s education. First, enlist family members who will be your child’s biggest cheerleaders. Then get the word out to your inner circles like colleagues, neighbors, coaches, and other parents. This momentum of team-building will further spread your message that will trickle into the community. Commit to being involved in your child’s education and put a plan into action to improve all students’ learning. Post pictures and messages on social media and use hashtags. As people share information, more parents and community members will come together to drive future achievement.
- Keep the Group Engaged: Wilson also authored Activities for Parent Groups, giving tips and ideas to help increase engagement. As more community members learn about your movement to improve school education’s quality, you will gain more support. Continue to partner and even reach out to local businesses and educators. If you host a local event promoting parent involvement in education, contact the news to gain more visibility. You can share your message and grow your movement by posting your events on social media and in local groups.
Your group will continue to grow if you have clear and concise messaging and do not deviate from your mission. By advocating for parent involvement in children’s education, you have an opportunity to make positive changes. This blog gives you some suggestions to get more involved. Remember, through the course of the school years, the parent remains the primary educator. Learn other ways to Get Involved in Your Child’s Education.