Parental Involvement
My first year of teaching, it was all about ME. My next couple of years of teaching, it was all about THE KIDS. This past year, I realized it is not only about me and my kids, but their parents too. I never realized how much their support could help me in the classroom. Last year I had an outpouring of parental support and participation. It made a world of a difference in my student’s academic and emotional development. For the first time I was not exhausted from doing my job as the classroom teacher and then having to double-time as the parent at the same time.
There are many reasons why parents are involved and why some are not. I am not at liberty to share (nor do I know for sure) why some parents participate and others do not. At my old school many parents did not speak English and the language barrier kept them from communicating often with me. However, they believed heavily in school and always helped their child at home the best they could. On the other hand, I had parents that worked two jobs and barely had time to tuck in their own children at night so working together on homework was not a daily opportunity. I did learn a sad truth about some of my kids’ parents- they did not know how to help because no one helped them as a student. They did not feel comfortable in their own academic abilities and therefore were hesitant to help their child in fear of not knowing or teaching incorrect methods.
I heavily encourage any involvement from a parent. After all, it’s not always about what you say. The time spent with your child is really the desired outcome. The bonding and shared experience in learning is beneficial to both parent and child. Many parents remarked last year that their own child taught them a new way to do math! That’s pretty powerful.
Parents, I encourage you to spend time with your child regardless of a language barrier, academic hesitancy, or even lack of time. If you work late, please check in on your child when you come home so that they know you appreciate them completing their daily responsibilities, that you value school as a priority, and that you love them enough to see how they are doing. I challenge those parents out there that struggle for that daily interaction around homework with your child, to make it a goal to check in a few times a week at first and work your way up to daily. The confidence you are instilling in your child will reap benefits even if it’s only a 5 minute conversation. They look up to you. They want your approval. Show them you care and that you value their learning experience.
Your child is your successor. EMPOWER THEM!
Thank you to all of those parents that are able to do more. Your child is benefiting far beyond what you can even imagine. With your guidance, your child will become their best. I appreciate all you do to create a bright future for my little kiddos!
Teachers, how do you increase parental involvement at your school or in your classroom?
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.
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