Research shows that children are more likely to succeed academically, and less likely to present behavior problems, if their families are involved in their education. In many schools, teachers are working hard to bridge the gap between school and home.
Learn More About Involving Parents
Education World has published several articles about involving parents. You can learn more by reading the following articles:
Principals Share Parent Involvement Ideas
Education World asked a number of principals to tell us how their teachers involve parents in the classroom and the school. Included: More than 30 practical ideas for including parents across the grades!
A Dozen Activities to Promote Parent Involvement!
Many parents say they feel unwelcome or uncomfortable in their children's schools. Teachers often feel under attack by parents who are highly involved. Learn how to bridge the gap with a dozen activities that promote parental involvement.
Increase Parent Involvement With First Day of School Activities
Read how schools across the nation -- in urban, rural, and suburban areas -- are breaking down barriers with parents and their communities by making the first day of school an exciting holiday with special activities that include everyone.
Organize a "Literature Day" (and Night!) at Your School
Teachers at Westwood Elementary School organized a Literature Day. Then they did the whole thing over again at night -- so they could involve families too. Included: Activity ideas and tips for organizing your own literature event.
In a Million Words or Fewer
A simple activity offers a powerful tool for learning about your students and connecting with their parents. After doing the activity, "I was suddenly a part of each child's life," said teacher Trisha Fogarty. Read what others had to say about the "Million Words" activity.
Beyond the Bake Sale: Parents Can Make the Difference in Countless Ways
Kevin Walker, the founder of the nonprofit organization Project Appleseed, is helping schools involve parents. The organization has created a list of 37 different ways in which parents can help and is on its way to recruiting 5 million parent volunteers nationwide.
Read more in Education World's Parent Involvement Archive.