Today I am sharing a few ways you can be volunteer at your child’s school when you have little time.
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Being involved is a a great way to show your kids that you take an interest in their education, and it sends a positive message that you consider school a worthwhile cause.
Research shows that when parents are involved in their child’s school, the child is more likely to: (source)
- earn better grades.
- score higher on tests.
- pass their classes.
- attend school regularly.
- have better social skills.
- show improved behavior.
- be more positive in their attitude toward school.
- complete homework assignments.
- graduate and continue their education.
Five Ways You Can Volunteer at Your Child’s School When You Have Limited Time:
1. Sign up for class parties.
This usually involves treats, drinks, plates/napkins, or treat bags. Our kids love bringing stuff and contributing to their class party.
When our oldest started school, class parties were handled by the parent teacher association and sign-ups were done at school registration. At some point the responsibility was passed on to the teachers. We now sign up on move in night.
This can be as easy as sending plates and napkins with your child.
2. Email the teacher and ask if there are any supplies that is needed for the class.
Teachers have such a small budget to purchase needed items. If she/he does not need anything at that moment ask her/him to keep you in mind in the future.
When our oldest was in kindergarten, his teacher had a giving tree in which she posted items she needed to aid in teaching and classroom projects. It was items like flour to make Christmas ornaments and apples for fall projects.
3. Volunteer for the parent teacher association/organization.
If you work during the day, this might work for you. Meetings are often held in the evening. If you can’t make it to meetings, offer to help with projects. There might be projects you can work on from home or on your own time.
4. Volunteer for special events.
Maybe you cannot make a commitment that requires many hours a year, but you can offer a couple of hours once a year. Teachers often need parent chaperons for field trips. Schools often have special events throughout the year that require parent volunteers to be successful.
Our school had two events last school year in which they needed parent volunteers: the annual scholastic book fair and a Body Venture educational exhibit. They were looking for just a couple of hours commitment from parents. Both events needed evening and daytime volunteers.
5. Collect Box Tops & Campbell’s for Education labels.
Schools can redeem cash for box tops and merchandise for Campbell labels. Recruit neighbors and family members who do not have children in school to help collect. Box Tops 4 Education//Labels for Education
I have teamed up with a great group of Kid Bloggers for Public Education to bring you a wealth of back to school information. Be sure to check out these great back to school articles by clicking on the links.
Homework Help Information for Public School Parents Wise Owl Factory Book a Day
10 Ways to be an Awesome Public School Mom Thriving STEM
What I Love About School Art Project Planet Smarty Pants
Dear Teacher… Creative Family
Free Weekly School Calendar 3 Dinosaurs
Come back next month on 9/4/15. Kid Bloggers for Public Education will be talking about homework.
For more Back to School from The Resourceful Mama click here: Back to School
Enter a giveaway for at Target gift card here: Back to School Giveaway
