Parents play an important role in helping their children achieve academic success. Research has shown repeatedly that there is a correlation between parental involvement in education and academic achievement. Whether it’s prioritizing education at home or getting involved with your child’s school directly, family involvement in education provides children with motivation and support.
Not only is parental engagement in education immediately beneficial—it can have substantial long-term effects, too. As one study from Children and Youth Services Review reveals, students with a higher level of parent involvement during elementary school are more likely to graduate from high school.
Here are a few suggestions for ways to get more involved in your child’s day-to-day education.
Get to know your child’s teachers
Parents and teachers work together to support student development. At the beginning of the school year, take some time to introduce yourself to your child’s teacher(s). If the school hosts an open house or back-to-school night, this is a great time to meet your child’s teacher in person and exchange contact information.
Keep this relationship going throughout the year by attending parent-teacher conferences and reaching out to the teacher whenever you have questions or concerns. If in-person conferences aren’t possible due to scheduling conflicts or transportation issues, ask the teacher if you can meet virtually.
Stay up to date on classroom happenings
Staying in the loop about what your child is learning at school allows you to create a home learning environment that is positive and supportive. That said, getting answers from your child about what they did in school that day is often easier said than done. That’s why it’s important to read any and all communications from their teachers—whether that be notes that are sent home with your child or classroom newsletters sent to your email.
At BASIS Charter Schools, we use Communication Journals to ensure a high level of transparency between parents and educators. These journals are used to help the student organize their day and to facilitate communication between teachers, students, and parents.
Help out with homework
Getting involved in your child’s homework routine is another great way to stay on top of what they’re learning in school. If your schedule allows, set aside time in the evenings to help your child with homework assignments. Even if you have a tween or teen that doesn’t require hands-on assistance, you can ask them questions about what they’re working on and let them know you’re available to help if needed. These gestures can go a long way in making your child feel supported.
Attend school events
It’s a given that if your child is on a sports team, you should make an effort to attend their games. But what about events that your child isn’t participating in? Attending these events can still have its benefits. For example, even if your child isn’t in the drama club, attending a school play gives you a chance to see what other activities the school has to offer. Plus, you’ll be able to connect with teachers and other parents. Bring your student with you and make a family outing of it!
Volunteer at your child’s school
Most schools have numerous volunteer opportunities for parents throughout the year. Examples of parent involvement in schools may include acting as a chaperone during dances or field trips, helping out with classroom projects, or contributing food or drinks to a school event. Ask your child’s teacher what you can do to get involved.
Join a parent organization
Joining a parent organization can help you make a positive impact on your child’s school. Members of parent organizations work together to provide support to the school throughout the year. Attending these meetings gives you a chance to get to know other families and stay on top of the latest school news.
These parent groups are often referred to as a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) or Parent Teacher Association (PTA). At BASIS Charter Schools, we have Booster Clubs led by parent volunteers. These Booster Clubs are not-for-profit, site-specific organizations that help plan, coordinate, and carry out a variety of activities for school families.
Learn about your education options
To help your child reach their academic goals, It’s important to know what education options are available to you and what the pros and cons of different types of schools are.
Enrolling your child in a school that inspires them to excel each and every day is one of the best things you can do for your child’s future. To learn more about our network of high-performing, tuition-free, public charter schools, find a school near you and schedule a tour today.
You can learn more about different education options by downloading our free guide, “A Parent’s Guide to School Choice.”
