Parent Involvement
Parent Involvement
Parental Involvement is the participation of parents in the educational processes of their children at home or at school.
Parent Involvement at Home
PARENT INVOLVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
READING
Parents can read with, read to and, read in the present of their children. Parents who read in the presence of their children, are encouraging the practice, and allow children to see that reading is valuable, useful, and enjoyable.
STRUCTURE
Children thrive on structure, and parents can create this by reinforcing the value of the family routine involving homework, meals, and regular bedtime.
COMMUNICATION
Conversations during bedtime help improve children’s language skills in both their understanding of what they hear and their ability to express themselves (Liontos, 2000)
Parental involvement at home includes:
- Parental aspirations in their children’s school achievement.
- Communication with children about school.
- Participation at home in educational related activities which can include homework supervision.
- Help with selection of classes.
Parent Involvement at School
PARENT INVOLVEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
PARENT-TEACHER RELATIONSHIP
In the school setting, parents can get involved with parent teacher associations or parent teacher organizations. Having parents interacting with school professionals is the best way to ensure the reduction the barriers between them (Stroup, 2001). In fact, Parents who have good relationships with teachers, feel less anxiety at home, because they have the opportunity to have someone listen to their feelings and concerns about dealing with their child’s issues. In a sense, this involvement sets up a collaborative relationship between the parent and teacher as they both guide the child through school (Gestwicki, 2000).
SCHOOL EVENTS
Parents can volunteer to help with art, drama, school library, computers labs, breakfast clubs, after-school clubs, school trips, and providing general assistance in the classroom. Many schools are very sensitive to parents’ busy work schedule and might schedule events in the evening if parents request this. Parents also have various opportunities to participate in events such as school discos, plays, concerts, school fairs, and weekend sports.
Parental involvement at school includes:
- Participation in school activities such as volunteering at school events.
- Participation in educational sessions such as Parent Teach Association (PTA) and parent-teacher conferences.
- Parent and teacher communication.
