Parents play a crucial role in supporting their child’s learning, and levels of parental engagement with the school and their teachers is often associated with better academic outcomes. As you know your child best, it’s crucial you keep communication with the school open so you can help teachers learn your child’s strengths and weaknesses and send a positive message that you’re there for support. Even if you haven’t been involved in the past, it’s never too late to start. Here’s some of the most beneficial ways you can support your child’s school and teachers.
Keep Up-To-Date With Paperwork
Even though this may seem obvious, staying up-to-date with school paperwork is a great way to support your child’s school. Making sure forms are filled out in time, money for school trips is paid and your child has everything they need for the term can save teachers and administrators a lot of wasted time chasing up forms or having to make alternative arrangements. A very easy but helpful way to give your support!
Volunteer Your Time
Most schools are always on the lookout for parents willing to volunteer their time. What’s great is that there are often lots of things you can get involved in. From helping to organise fundraising activities such as a bake sale or car wash, to chaperoning school trips or just helping out for a few hours at other school events. Giving your time really is a great gift! To stay in the loop regarding events taking place, make sure you keep an eye on the school newsletter or send an email to your child’s teacher letting them know you’re willing to help out.
Attend Parents Evenings
Parents evenings or school meetings are a great opportunity to meet your child’s teachers in person and find out first-hand how your child is doing and what the school is getting involved in. Attending these meetings also shows that you’re actively supporting your child’s education, so make sure you introduce yourself so you can get in touch in the future.
Communicate and Build Relationships
It’s important for parents to communicate and build up a relationship with their child’s teachers and other school staff members. Having this open line of communication shows how invested you are in your child’s education and also means staff can reach out to you if they need your support or input. Email communication is a great way to stay in touch, and even sending a short message introducing yourself, sending some kind words or helpful feedback will be appreciated.
Ask What You Can Do At Home To Help
Ask your child’s teachers what practical strategies you can get involved with at home to support their learning. Most teachers would greatly appreciate parents getting on board with their tips and resources that can help students progress in their studies. For example, teachers will often encourage parents to create a regular routine at home, encouraging good homework habits, goal setting and having a calm study environment for children to work. This help at home is invaluable for children and will mean teachers can really push students with this stable routine to achieve academic success and beyond.
