Tips for Improved Parent Involvement

If you don’t have kids yet you may not know the importance of parent involvement. Parents can provide other opportunities for their children to grow and learn by getting involved in their lives; socially and educationally. Parents have a responsibility and duty to help their children learn and grow in cooperation with the education system If you want to get involved but aren’t sure where to start, then here are some tips for improved parent involvement.

Tip #1: Communication
Communicating with your child is probably the most important way to understand them and get to know them better. You may think you know everything there is to know about your child but things can change fairly quickly on a daily basis, especially during the adolescent years. Make yourself available to talk with them and don’t be judgmental about what they want to know or talk about. Ask them how their day was? Ask them what they love most about school? Anything that can spark a conversation is a great way to open the doors of communication. Most importantly let them know that you are here for them when they need you. Communication is a key component to every healthy relationship.

Tip #2: Volunteer your time in the classroom
Although they may not vocally say it most kids love it when parents come into the classroom to help with reading, writing, or anything the teacher needs. And even though this is said even less than what we just mentioned, kids can appreciate it when a parent gives up their time to spend just with them. Teachers love having extra hands in the classroom and will gladly welcome extra help so don’t be afraid to speak up and offer your services. You can come in and help with putting books together, reading with the children, helping them write, or even coming in a guest speaker.

Tip #3: Get involved with extra-curricular activities or community groups
A busy child is one that has less time to get into trouble. While it is always important to find a balance because too many extra-curricular activities can hinder a child, finding something else for them to do after school hours can help with many different things. Extra-curricular activities are beneficial to a child’s confidence, allows them to be involved with other adults that can be great role models, and gives them the opportunity to explore new talents. In fact, many of the extra-curricular activities associated with public schools are largely dependent on parent involvement. If you have a talent you are willing to share then don’t be share about it. Teaching extra-curricular activities is a great way to get involved with your child indirectly or directly.

Tip #4: Foster their curiosity
In today’s world we are surrounded with technology; such things as computers, ipods, and digital cameras are available to kids of all ages. While these can all play a significant role in their development, you must be aware of how they are being used and where. Instead of letting your child play games on the computer all day, show them how to find websites for learning. If they are interested about sea animals then find some fun facts and pictures on that topic. Whatever it is, they want to learn more so be involved with them. Take them on field trips to the park, the library, or a museum to get them excited about the world they live in. There is so much out there for them to see and learn that we need to take advantage of it while we can.

Hopefully these tips for improved parent involvement will give you some ideas on how to be more involved with your child. Be actively engaged with them and help them learn everything they can.