Research shows that active parental involvement in schools helps students achieve all-round development and greater academic success.
You like to be there for your child's school functions and your child is thrilled by your presence. Research shows that active parental involvement in schools helps students achieve all-round development and greater academic success
How can you get more involved
Each school has its own set of guidelines on parental involvement. You might want to find your own ways to get involved but they should be aligned according to school rules. Forge a parent-school partnership that will be conducive to your child's progress.
Here are some ways to enhance your participation:
Ask your way around: Your child's school will be your best source of information. Ask teachers how you can help your child better his performance in school.
Volunteer: A school calendar is dotted with many activities like sports day, cultural functions and fundraising events.
These are the best times to volunteer. Overburdened teachers will
welcome your help with a sigh of relief. For example, you can be there
for your child's theatrical debut not only as audience but also as a
backstage helper.
Meet teachers: Take an appointment to meet teachers
regularly and track your child's progress. These meetings should always
be brief and your approach should be polite. Get to know new teachers
and acquaint them if your child
has any special needs. Inform the teachers about major changes at home
like an illness, transfers, etc. If the teacher points out your child's
weak points, work on them and follow-up with her. If you have any
disagreements with the teacher don't bring them up in your child's
presence.
Be there for PTAs: Attend parent-teacher meetings. This a
time dedicated for you so take full advantage of the opportunity. Come
prepared with your questions and take note of suggestions. Familiarize
teachers with difficulties the child might be facing at home and how can you both help her. PTA meets are very beneficial if your child is a bit shy. Tell the teacher about your child's talents and hobbies so he gets more chances to showcase them.
Enroll in parents groups: Many schools encourage parents to develop small groups to help in school
administration. For example, there are parents groups in some schools
that help parents of new students get acquainted with administration
and procedures.
But I am busy
Not all parents can play an active role in their child's
schooling. Many times both parents work full-time. Meet the teacher
early in the year to let her know of any time constraints. Find out if
she can answer your questions through notes, emails or phone calls.
Tell her about your intent to be there as much as possible.
Study the school calendar and mark events you can attend. What are the most crucial events? Plan your leave so you don't miss them.
Involvement at home
Whether you are an active parent at school
or not, be totally involved in your child's learning at home. Even
traditional home-based parental activities contribute to a successful school life.
Support his routine of homework, playtime, meals and bedtime.
Set fixed times for television, internet and games.
Make dinner time a family time. Table conversations help your child understand things, people and issues around him and encourage him to express his opinions.
Name:
thomas
Country: India
it is very importanat for parents to know what is going in the school and what their child is doing in the school. this definitely help to increase confidence in a child. good article.....
Name:
parent
Country: U.S.A.
i think that just as parenting is a shared job , both parents must also be equally involved in the child's school activicties . one piece of advice (though perspectives may vary ) is that if you are a teacher is to enroll your kids in the school that you teach him . though it is certianlly not adviseable to tewach your kid in the classroom , this gives you a full insight into your childs performances and gives your chiuld a sense of security . your child alaso feels the parental involvement in school activicties and will be no doubt proud to say that mr or mrs so-and-so is my mother or father .
Name:
harish lathia
Country: United Kingdom
i was told by my secondry school headteacher that parental interest ina childs education is even more important than the pastrol care provided by teachers and staff at school. parents must not forget that tutor groups (particularly in the 'western' hemesphere)comprise of less thirty or so,than benevolent children and so the time given to each time is on average miniscule. i speak both as a teacher and a parent.
Name:
Hanna
Country: India
parents should actively be involved with the child's school and teacher. even for busy parents they should meet with the teacher to discuss their child's performance and how parents can help if the child is weak in a certain area in learning. also, sometimes parents go into a defensive when teachers give advise for speech therapy, remedial schools for children who are not coping so well or occupational therapy. they do have the right to seek a second opinion but not completely deny the fact that it can't be true. problems detected earlier and dealt with are better than long term results of neglect! and yes both parents should be involved.
