Communicate important dates for the class with a monthly calendar in the newsletter. Mark due dates for projects that require work outside the classroom so the parents have time to help plan that time into their schedules. Make a note of class outings, parties and field trips on the calendar to assist the parents in planning. Special holidays, and days off will be easier to note at a glance.
Highlight one study tip in each newsletter. Most kids need help establishing positive study habits. Give simple steps toward developing those habits by writing a short article about one studying tip in each newsletter. An effective way to communicate these ideas is to write about only one at a time.
Include new school subjects for the month or week in the newsletter. Parents can incorporate learning at home that reinforces what they are learning in school. When the teacher has planned a unit study on polar bears, the family could take a trip to the zoo or pick up books at the library that help enrich their child's learning experience.
List ways in which parents can become more involved at the school. Create a list of items needed in the classroom, days on which the teacher could use an extra helper or two and events that require more involvement from the parents such as field trips or class parties.
Publish a website, e-mail account or phone number by which the parents can contact the teacher. Encourage good communication between the parents and the teacher. In the newsletter, list ways in which families can work with the school to help their child succeed.