From the Principal’s Desk – 07 June, 2018 – Positive Parent Involvement
Dear Parents,
I found this extremely powerful reminder of how IMPORTANT positive parent involvement is for ANY school. It is well known that a school parent body can contribute greatly to how successful a school can be, by how they interact and participate in the educational journey of their child. More now than ever, schools need supportive parents who fully “buy into” a school’s vision and are strong advocates of the programmes (academics and otherwise) offered by their choice of school. This positive investment in a school only enhances the child’s overall educational experience and makes the school community that much stronger. Please take a moment to read the following article.
This online article was written by Michael Grose – a leading parenting educator in Australia.
“Positive Parent Involvement – you make a difference Positive parent participation demonstrates to children that you value learning as well as their school.
Parental withdrawal from children’s education is a big problem these days as increasingly parents are worn out from working too hard or being involved in a variety of activities. By the time you get home from work or doing other activities you are spent. But the message for parents is clear – become involved in as many aspects as practical in your child’s education. The involvement of parents helps break down the mystique about school that can exist for some children. Their chances of success are better when they see school as an extension of home rather than merely an institution for learning. Positive parent participation demonstrates to children that you value learning as well as their school. Children copy many of their parents’ views so your positive attitude to school and learning is catching. Many primary schools offer parents classroom jobs such as hearing kids read, taking small groups in elective activities and assisting children when writing stories.
Parent participation is much broader than helping out in the classroom. There is a range of simple ways to assist teachers to maximise the learning of your child. These include; hearing young learners read, helping with homework and making sure kids go off to school happy, healthy and with plenty of sleep. Here are some more ideas to help you participate in your child’s education in positive ways:
- Find out what your school is trying to achieve for your child and show your support for its aims. Discover what sets your child’s school apart from others.
- Support a broad, balanced curriculum that offers children a variety of educational experiences rather than a program that focuses narrowly on the traditional 3 R’s.
- Direct constructive criticism through the correct channels such as your child’s teacher, the principal or the school’s governing body. Gossip or thoughtless criticism within the general community can easily tarnish a school’s reputation.
- Become an advocate for your child’s school and promote its positive features throughout the wider community. Encourage your child to take pride in their school through your example.
- Attend school activities such as open days, concerts, sports events and celebrations. Invite other members of the community along as well.
- Consult with your child’s teacher about practical ways that you can assist both at home and at school.
Positive parent participation in school and learning is a proven criterion for student success. One practical way to assist your child as a learner is to become actively involved in his or her school-life.”
Published by Michael Grose Presentations. All rights reserved: www.parentingideas.com.au
Kind regards,
Grant Ruskovich