Transition to Kindergarten Parent Guides: How Can I Be Involved With My Child’s Education?

Research shows it is important for you to be involved in your child's education.

Parent involvement helps your child succeed in school. It results in your child being absent less and better behaved. A home that supports learning is important. This affects your child’s school success. It matters more than your income, educational level or cultural background, and it is fun.

Three things that help your child succeed in school:

1. Help organize your child’s time.
2. Help with homework.
3. Talk about school.

The following tips may help your child do well:

• Start a daily family routine. Provide time and a quiet place to study. Be firm about bedtime. Eat dinner together.
• Set limits on TV watching. Set up after school activities and care.
• Show the values of discipline and hard work.
• Notice and support special talents. Share successes with family and friends.
• Talk positively about school experiences.

Different ways to be involved:

COMMUNICATION: Read and respond to all notices and newsletters. Attend parent-teacher conferences. Translators may be available if needed.
VOLUNTEERING: Support your child’s class by helping their teacher. Go on a field trip. Share your family’s culture with the other children.
PARENT LEADERSHIP: Join PTA/PTO or other parent groups. These groups offer a lot of chances to help in the school. They also give you a chance to connect with other parents and staff.
DECISION MAKING: Let the principal know if you want to serve on advisory councils or committees. Attend school board meetings or work sessions.

*If you are a parent of a child with a disability, make sure you are included in the development of the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Know that your involvement is important to the IEP process. Every school building has a school improvement plan. Ask to review it or join the team that works on updating it.