Becoming actively involved in your child's education benefits her both in and out of the classroom. If you have high expectations for your child's education, your respectful involvement will only enhance the learning at school. Schools may not be aware of your individual expectations, and simply voicing these ideas and concerns may lead to changes in your child's education. In addition, advocating for education serves as a model for your child and shows her the importance of education to your family.
You will likely want to communicate a great deal with your child's teacher. She is the person who spends the most time with him, and developing a strong rapport with her improves your ability to communicate your concerns. Establishing a good relationship through consistent and respectful communication beginning at the start of school sets the tone for the rest of the school year. Call or write the teacher for progress reports, updates or other concerns. Schedule parent-teacher conferences to meet with your child's teacher face to face. Be sure to respect the teacher's style and ideas, but advocate for what you feel your child needs to best suit his individual leaning preferences. In addition, discuss any cultural views that may affect your child's learning or interactions with peers.
Children with special needs may require additional parental involvement in the public schools. You are invited to attend the child's planning meeting where goals and objects for the year are established. Attending this meeting, as well as the progress meetings throughout the year, allow you the chance to sit down with the team of educators who work with your child on a daily basis. This meeting is an opportunity to voice questions and concerns about your child's education in the public school. If you wish, you can also bring someone with you to the meeting to help you advocate for your child.
Another way you can stay actively involved in your child's education is to volunteer in the classroom. Establish a set time with the teacher where you go to the classroom and help with reading or writing activities. If you are not able to do this because of your own busy schedule, volunteer for field trips or special events such as sports days or holiday celebrations. Volunteering allows you to see your child in his learning environment and gives you a better picture of his social and academic learning in school.