OTL502-Learning Theories and                      Models of Instruction

As teachers, we know that family/parental involvement is key to student growth, success, and achievement. Peeling back the curtain and getting those support systems set up is key for students and building positive relationships for students within your classroom, but also partnering with families for the overall betterment of the student. Here are a few ways to get families involved.

​

• Reach out to families. Most parents want to be involved!

​

• Schedule one-on-one visits and ask parents for their advice. They know their children the best.​

​

• Schedule home visits. Be apart of their culture. It is a more and more common practice and makes parents feel more comfortable.

​

• Encourage families to spend time at school. Have them visit a class, join the PTA or booster club. The more they are involved the more they can advocate for what the school is doing.

​

• Give families a chance to showcase talents. Guest speakers, career days, chaperones, etc.

​

• Remember to say “thank you” to families for their efforts with a call or a note.

​

• Reach out to the community and other family members. Parents may be unavailable. Talk to grandparents and community leaders to visit a class and share the importance of education.

​

• Publish a print or online newsletter to keep families informed.

​

• Give families a hands-on role by requiring a signature on homework and permission slips for activities.

​

• Turn back to school nights and conferences into family fun nights. Involve everyone from mom and dad to baby brother. This builds the sense of family and that you are invested in the family.

​

• Encourage families to provide at-home necessities for learning. A good night's rest, nutritional breakfast, packing an adequate lunch, providing structure in study/homework time (quiet space, time, supplies).

​