This week we are discussing how to increase parental engagement in the classroom. Here are a few tactics that I used to draw in Kindergarten/First Grade parents…
I gave a 30-minute talk with Power Point, hand-outs, books, and other pertinent materials entitled “How Can I Make Sure My Child Learns to Read?” We often assume that because we as teachers know what to do to teach a child to read, that parents should also know. But giving basic pointers like reading to your child, asking appropriate questions, listening to them read, etc., are things many parents do not take the time to do with their children. However, these basic steps can reap tremendous results.
Serving refreshments beforehand can serve as an ice breaker also.
If you have certain expectations regarding reading “homework” during the week, at this meeting would be the time to communicate that with parents. For example, if you request your students read a certain amount each night or three nights a week, whatever your expectations are, the beginning of the year and in person is the time to communicate that expectation.
Often parents want to be involved at this age, but do not always know exactly how that looks. Communication is key!
Spending the time with your team at the beginning of the year in preparing this session can really pay off in the long run and may just ward off future questions and resistance.
TRENDbits 