The Involvement Difference: Ten Tips for Parent Involvement

Of course, you want your child to get the best education possible. But once he or she walks through the school doors, how do you make sure he’s or she’s learning? You might believe it’s the teacher’s responsibility. But in fact, you can make sure your child gets the most out of school — by being involved.

You need to send a clear message to your children: education is important to our family.

Studies show when parents get involved in their children’s education, good things happen. Grades and test scores improve. Children become more likely to pass and go to better colleges. They develop better social skills, their self-esteem rises, and they become less likely to use drugs and alcohol.

Here are 10 ways to get involved and ensure sure your child gets the most out of his or her education. These simple steps will make a powerful difference for your child.

Prepare Your Child to be Ready to Learn

1. Studies show that children who eat breakfast do better in school. Like your involvement, breakfast doesn’t need to be elaborate. A bowl of cereal can be a quick part of breakfast, providing essential vitamins and minerals and allows your child to start the day right.

2. Avoid the morning rush. Set out clothes the night before. Gather books, pencils, and other school needs together, too. Get your child to class on time. Children who run late have a hard time settling down, so build in a 10-minute cushion.

3. Make sure he or she gets plenty of rest. Set a regular bedtime and stick to it. Nobody functions at peak capacity when overly tired.

Open Lines of Communication

4. Talk with your child about school. Help with homework. Keep up with school announcements and events. Make this part of your daily life.

5. Talk with the teacher. If your child is struggling with homework, drop the teacher a note. Don’t just communicate twice a year at parent-teacher conferences.

6. Attend school family events. Simple, fun activities like the Fall carnival, the spaghetti dinner and the Spring fling create a connection between home and school that has long-term benefits for your child.

Pitch In

7. Volunteer your time. You don’t have to make a huge commitment. An hour a semester makes a difference.

8. Look for creative ways to volunteer such as helping in the classroom, planning a family night, decorating bulletin boards or welcoming families new to your school. There are dozens of jobs to be done; ask for one to fit your interest!

9. Volunteer when it fits into your schedule. You don’t have to be at school during school hours to help. There are jobs you can do at home, on weekends, after hours, and at your own pace. Ask the parent group leader at your school about off-hour opportunities.

10. Don’t delay. Start getting involved today. The sooner you do, the sooner you, your child, and the school will benefit!

Visit ptotoday.com or americancerealcouncil.org for additional tips.