When you think of parent involvement at AVA, do you envision moms and dads volunteering in the classroom, helping in the lunchroom or with carpool? The COVID-19 protocols have made it necessary for AVA to pause volunteering at school, at least the way we are used to. Certainly, volunteering at school is a valuable way to be involved, but research shows that supporting your child's education at home is extremely important as well. Following are four conversations that will help you stay involved with your child's education:
"Let's see what you brought home today,” or, “what did you do in class?"
Look at completed work whenever possible to see what your child is learning and how well they are doing. You could comment on their social studies work or their math progress. Make positive comments about their work and show that you are proud of them. If they did not bring anything home, ask what they did in class.
"Show me what you have for homework."
It is your child's job to do their homework, but you play a role too. Make sure your child knows what they are supposed to do by having them explain the assignments to you. After they finish, glance over the work to see that it is complete.
"Describe a book you enjoyed today."
This gives you an idea of what your child prefers to read. Then, build a daily reading habit by asking what they would like to read tonight. Encourage their reading and listening skills by reading aloud with them and letting them read to you.
"Tell me what you learned that you would like to know more about."
Use your child's interest as a jumping-off point for activities to share. If your child likes geometry, you might do tangrams together. If they are fascinated by a lesson they learned in science, talk more about it with them and look for ways to explore their interests.
Bob Barber, M.Ed.
Principal
Aspen View Academy
