Parent involvement is a critical component of student success in the classroom. Research has shown that children whose parents are involved in their education have better academic outcomes, including higher grades, test scores, and graduation rates. However, engaging parents in the classroom can be challenging for teachers. Here are five creative strategies for increasing parent involvement in the classroom.

Host Parent-Teacher Conferences

One of the most effective ways to increase parent involvement is by hosting regular parent-teacher conferences. During these conferences, teachers can discuss the child’s academic progress, share any concerns or challenges, and provide information about how parents can support their child’s learning at home. Research has shown that parent-teacher conferences are positively associated with student achievement (Henderson & Mapp, 2002).

Use Social Media

Australian schools are taking shy steps in utilising the power of social media to showcase their work. However, numerous schools around the world have “opened their doors” and welcomed their community in their classrooms. The reason behind this move is simple. Many parents are active on social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Schools can use these platforms to communicate with parents and share information about events and the day-to-day activities of a school, such as assemblies, important dates, even upcoming assignments and student projects. Additionally, social media can be used to create online learning hubs, where parents can access resources and other materials to support their child’s learning.

Create a Class Website

A class website can be an effective way to keep parents informed about what is happening in the classroom. Teachers can use it to post homework assignments, class schedules, and other important information. Additionally, teachers can use it to share student work, photos, and videos, to keep parents informed about what their child is learning and to give them a glimpse into the classroom.

Hold Family Learning Evenings

Family learning nights are events that bring families and teachers together to learn and have fun. These events can take many forms, such as game nights, science fairs, and book clubs. Family learning nights provide an opportunity for families to learn about what their child is learning in school, and for teachers to learn more about their students’ families.

Encourage Parent-Child Learning

Encourage parents to participate in their child’s learning at home, by providing them with activities that they can do with their child. For example, teachers can provide parents with worksheets, games, and other activities that align with what the child is learning in class. Additionally, teachers can provide parents with resources, such as websites and books, that will help them support their child’s learning at home.

Parent involvement is a critical component of student success in the classroom. These five creative strategies can help teachers increase parent involvement and improve academic outcomes for their students.

References:

• Henderson, A. T., & Mapp, K. L. (2002). A new wave of evidence: The impact of school, family, and community connections on student achievement. Austin, TX: Southwest Educational Development Laboratory.

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