Being an involved parent in your child’s education is one of the most significant things you can do to support their academic success. Parental involvement in school has been proven to increase student achievement, improve attendance, and reduce dropout rates. However, it can be challenging to know where to start, as it’s a journey, and it can take some time to get a grasp of everything going on. So, in the text below, we’ll discuss eight useful tips on the matter to make it easier for parents just starting with your child’s school. We hope you’ll like the advice. Read on!
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Attend Parent-Teacher Conferences
Now, this one goes without saying, as parent-teacher conferences are an excellent opportunity to discuss your child’s progress with their teacher. Moreover, it is a chance to learn more about your child’s strengths, areas for improvement, and academic goals.
You’ll finally have an overview of how your child is handling his or her academic inclinations, and you’ll get a better look at the whole educational system and the way your child’s school operates.
Yes, it can be hard to find time for these things with a full-time schedule, but if you’re in touch with the child’s teacher on a regular basis, there is a chance you’ll get a notice of these events weeks before they even happen, giving you enough time to plan and organize accordingly.
Volunteer at School
Schools often need volunteers to help with events, chaperone field trips, or assist in the classroom. Taking an active part in these events gives you a unique chance to participate and become more involved in your child’s life.
It also gives you a chance at quality bonding time, as most of the activities can be done in collaboration with your kid and their peers. And don’t forget how active participation in such events gives you an open window to become part of your school’s council and even participate in the making of important decisions.
Join the PTA/PTO
If you’ve never heard of the terms PTA or PTO, you’re not alone, as most parents are completely in the dark when it comes to these things. In short, parent-teacher associations or organizations (PTA/PTO) are groups of parents and teachers who work together to improve the school environment, advocate for students, and plan events.
Joining the PTA/PTO is an excellent way to stay informed about school news and events, meet other parents and teachers, and have a say in school policies. You can give some interesting fundraiser ideas for PTAs at your next meeting and involve everyone, as these fundraisers are a great way to get the resources needed for renovations or school trips for special holidays.
Most schools, unfortunately, have to operate on a tight budget, and due to these “restrictions” or “lack of funds”, the school has to choose between essentials like regular meals in the cafeteria and chalk for the boards and other leisure activities of less importance. So, fundraising is a great way to get that extra cash for the kids.
Attend School Events
Schools often hold events such as sports games, performances, and art shows. Get your kid involved in these things, whether it’s sports or theater. It gives them a great chance to participate with other children, bond, and establish meaningful relationships.
Also, attending these events gives you a great opportunity to show your unconditional love and support. It also provides an opportunity to meet other parents and teachers and learn more about the school’s culture.
Communicate with Teachers
Regular communication with your child’s teacher is critical to stay informed about your child’s progress and any challenges they may be facing. Keep it always professional; that’s our advice, but feel free to ask everything regarding your kid’s well-being, attitude, academic progress, how they behaved, and if there were any incidents.
Having an insight into your child’s life beyond just your home can help you show your kid love and support if it’s going through a troublesome time, whether due to bullying, a lack of friends, or just academic stagnation.
Make Donations
Donations often go hand in hand with fundraiser events, but instead of asking for money, you could give everyone a chance to donate and give away the things they no longer need. We’re sure your community would be more than eager to contribute, as everyone has some stuff lying around without a real purpose.
Also, flea markets are a great way to get more resources for the school, as people could trade and buy things they like, and that way, you’ll get more money for other activities you’ve already planned.
Encourage Learning at Home
Learning doesn’t just happen at school. You can read with your child, help with homework, and provide a quiet place to study. The academic success of your child depends on how much you work with them outside of school.
Yes, it takes up time, but it’s far better than tutoring classes you’d otherwise just pay for, as you can bond with your kid and be involved in the school’s curriculum and what they’re being taught.
Maybe there are even things you don’t agree with or have a certain opinion about, or maybe you’ll have a better chance at learning yourself while helping your kid do their best. Anyway, it’s a better alternative to paying someone else, as you’ll participate more. But it does take time and effort.
Join a Parent Advisory Committee
Some schools have parent advisory committees that work with school administration to improve the school’s programs and policies. It’s an excellent way to express your opinions on certain matters and have a say in what’s going on in your kid’s school. You won’t make real progress at the very beginning, but with the right involvement, you’ll get to the right point over time.
As you can see, parental involvement in school is critical to supporting your child’s academic success. You can be part of parent-teacher conferences, volunteer at school, join the PTA/PTO, attend school events, communicate with teachers, encourage learning at home, join a parent advisory committee, and support school fundraisers. You can play an active role in your child’s school.
These tips will help you get started and make a positive impact on your child’s academic journey.