Parents can get involved in classroom activities. Teachers can communicate with the parents to let them know in what ways they can be helpful or at least let them watch class so they know what goes on in a typical day. The teacher may consider creating a committee for parents to be a part of, that would allow them to choose classroom equipment and materials. Parents and teachers should have regular get togethers and activities to talk about what goes on in the classroom and provide input on what could improve a child's education.
Use parent/teacher conferences as an opportunity to explore a child's work together. Pick out some special projects your child has worked on and use it as a starting point to talk about the child's development. Teachers can help by creating a comfortable environment to discuss these issues and carry an open mind. The teachers and parents should set enough time so they are not rushed through this important activity.
A classroom volunteer program gives parents a chance to be more involved and takes a load off the teachers. Parents can volunteer to chaperon field trips or coordinate with the teacher to create a special session for the students.
Teachers can set aside a special night for parents to give presentations or demonstrations of their areas of expertise. Parents can use the opportunity to be creative and put forth proposals for fun activities that all of the kids can enjoy and also experience an important contribution to their education.
Workshops on improving grades and study skills are a good way for parents and teachers to get together and help a child overcome any learning obstacles. Creating a comfortable and non-judgmental environment allows teachers and parents to more effectively instruct the student on how to improve in necessary areas. This can be a particularly effective activity immediately following a report card. Do this for all the students. All children can benefit from it, and other children won't feel singled out.