Y Talk: Family Engagement in Schools by Brittany Nissley

It’s no surprise that trying to find the time to be involved in your child’s school is complicated. I, myself, have a hard time trying to juggle all of the things that I’d like to do with my time. However, being involved in your child’s school life can really make a difference. Parents and teachers that work together as a team tend to have children that are more successful in school.

Throughout my studies in Early Childhood Education, many of my classes touched on this topic. The amount of research on parent involvement is astounding. The research shows that parents that are involved in their child’s education have children that are more social, more likely to attend college, earn higher grades and test scores, have higher self-esteem, have better relationships with their parents, attend school more regularly and show improved behavior.

Being involved does not mean that you need to devote all your free time to school. Here are some tips on ways to be involved:

• Help your child with his/her homework
• Go over flashcards
• Read to them
• Have them read to you
• Ask your child about his/her school day
• Attend special school events
• Chaperone a field trip
• Join a parent group
• Build relationships with your child’s teachers
• Attend parent/teacher conferences and other meetings
• Ask questions

Parent involvement can begin the minute your child is enrolled into any child care program or school and should continue throughout all of their schooling. In recent years, pre-kindergarten programs have made an increase in the opportunities that they provide for parent involvement. It’s important to realize that involvement does not end as the child ages. Involvement should stay consistent and even continue through high school.

The Carlisle Family YMCA Child Development Center encourages parent and family involvement. Our goal is to provide the best environment for the children in our care and to remain consistent between the school and the home. Please feel free to make any suggestions. We love to hear from parents!

-by Brittany Nissley, Child Care Director