The phrase “It takes a village to raise a kid” is not cliche. Parents/guardians are a huge resource and support to their school’s community. Anne Henderson and Nancy Berla summed it up in their book A New Generation of Evidence: The Family Is Critical to Student Achievement, which reviewed the existing research: "When parents are involved in their children's education at home, they do better in school. And when parents are involved in school, children go farther in school and the schools they go to are better." Volunteering in the classroom will give parents/guardian an insight into their child’s daily activities. Anything that can benefit a child’s academic and emotional development is pivotal. The village concept is nothing new; it continues to show children a positive reflection of parents and teachers working together, and this is the true definition of community.
Parents start thinking outside of the box when you hear the word volunteer. Of course, we want you in the classrooms and attending field trips. However, if you can’t take time off from work send another village member-grandmother, aunt, or uncle-on your behalf. If that doesn’t work ask about other alternative ways to give back. You may have a skill that your child’s school needs that you can do at home. For example, write a blog post for the monthly newsletter, or design a flyer for their next event. Lastly, you could donate items or give an in kind donation to purchase the items that they may need. In a school there is always a need that needs to be fulfilled, so parents ask your child’s teacher “how can I help you” this month.
During the month of August, From the Heart Preschool is launching the #GiveBackTheLove campaign. We know we have many #HeartHeros out there. We are in need of a new tricycle for our students, so spread the word to our community. To donate please visit our website and thank you in advance. Furthermore, remember that volunteering not only benefits the students. It also helps the classroom, the whole school, and the community by giving students positive interaction, support, and encouragement.
