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Involvement in your child’s school is more than fundraising, volunteering or helping in the classroom. Children do best when parents are connected to their children’s school in meaningful ways. Children do well when they know their parents and teachers have regular contact with each other.
You are a partner with the teacher in your child’s education. Talk with the teacher about your child’s education so you have the same goals. You and the teacher can work together in your different roles to help your children achieve these goals.
It is okay for you to make the first contact with your children’s teachers. Talk with them at the beginning of the school year before you have any concerns about your child’s work. Contact the teacher by phone, e-mail or in person. Be respectful and willing to learn about what your child does in school. You and the teachers both want the best for your children.
You can ask for a language interpreter if you need one. When you and the teachers and school system have cultural differences, there can be misunderstandings. An interpreter or cultural guide can help.
Talk with teachers even when things are going well with your child. Praise or thank teachers for their work. If there are problems, it is easier to work them out if you already have a relationship with the teacher.
Let teachers know about big events in your child’s life such as a death or illness in the family, divorce, job loss or less income. These events can affect your child’s behavior in school and the ability to learn. When teachers know about these big events, it helps them understand behavior changes and provide support.
For more information visit Parenting for School Success.
Source(s)
Olson, Gengler, Musich, Stoppa, and Alberts (2008). Parenting for School Success: A Guide for Parents (item # 08502). St. Paul, MN: University of Minnesota Extension.
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