When your child was in daycare, you used to accompany your child’s group on their field trips. You knew the place and the educators very well and now, you feel rejected from your child’s new environment and you would like to be involved again. The school board will be glad to hear that! School always need help and teachers love to see parents getting involved in their children’s lives. Here is what will be offered when you decide to get involved.
Field trips
Each year, teachers organize field trips to change the scenery and teach differently certain subjects such as natural science or art. In general, these field trips are very interesting and allow you to do something fun with your child while helping his teacher. You will have to answer a lot of questions and ensure the security of children in a public place. It will also be a great opportunity for you to pick apples or see an exhibition that you would have missed otherwise.
Library
If you are a reader and if you would like to see the school from the inside as if you worked there, volunteering as librarian would be the perfect job for you! If you want to, you can give your name and availabilities to the Principal and he will find a period for you every week at the same time. During this period, you will put books in place; advise children and mark loans and returns.
Special events
From time to time, schools organize fundraisers or special events such as Halloween parties, Christmas choirs; bake sales, parties, proms, etc. These activities usually involve the whole school and it can cause quite a stir so you are always welcome to help! When you receive the monthly schedule, check what is planned for the next few weeks and tell your child’s teacher what you are interested in. You will see, these days are a lot of fun and go pretty fast.
School board
Some decisions concerning the budget, activities, volunteers, infrastructures and playgrounds must be made democratically in a school. Consequently, a school board is in place and several positions must be allocated to parents who will be chosen during the Assembly. This involvement is essential and if you choose to be there, you will have to attend meetings throughout the year. That being said, you will also have first hand information and a direct impact on some elements related to your child’s academic life.
Presentations
Whether you are a costume designer, a comedian, an acrobat, a policewoman or a chemist, a presentation in your child’s class to introduce your field and do a little workshop is always welcome. If you would like this kind of activity, talk to your child’s teacher who will find an appropriate time to use your talent.
No matter how much time you can invest in school, there certainly is a formula that will allow you to be part of your child’s academic years other than through his homework. Don’t be shy, you will find out that school employees are recognized for their interpersonal skills and who knows, you might learn a thing or two about managing groups of children and patience!
