[Irene]

It depends on the intention of the parent. The purpose of volunteering and dropping in whenever you like could be very different for one person than it is for the other. If they want to contribute and volunteer, absolutely you should allow them to do so. However, some intentions might not be as wholesome as others; make sure that those intentions are in line with the interests and safety of your children.

[Lisa H]

I do not agree with Parents volunteering, don’t think they will be qualified to do that.

[Marie Ann D.]

I have found that parents can be a wonderful resource, but I can see why that would be an unpopular opinion. I currently work at a non-profit preschool and parents are a big part of our day-to-day life, especially by being a part of our Board of Directors. However, I’m not a big fan of the open-door policy if it’s at random times. What I have found works is to have specific activities for them to take part in or have specific times they can visit but have them sign up for it (so that we don’t run into any surprises). At my center, we offer specific ways for them to volunteer so that they feel like they are part of their child’s schooling but it’s kind of on our terms. We have Room Parents and Parent Committees (sunshine committee, playground committee, etc.). We also have a Student of the Week opportunity for families to come into the classrooms and either share a bit about their family, read a book, sing a song, do an art activity, etc.

This allows families to be involved but also us to have some control. My school community is very small, so parental involvement is extremely helpful. I feel like if we set the expectation from the beginning of what the boundaries are and what’s allowed, parents will mostly respect that, and we will be able to have meaningful interactions and stronger relationships overall. The kids also get excited when they see a family member who could be a distractor, but it can also be a wonderful teaching opportunity for the child. I’m all for parent involvement and interaction, as long as the classroom teacher is still in control of the room and the students.

[Savali Northington Sluss]

It is proven working with parents in the classroom can be beneficial for all parties. Parent participation strengths the parent-teacher relationship along with keeping parents comfortable with their child’s educational environment. Parents may not be professionals in the field but with varying backgrounds parents can provide an abundance of knowledge or life experience that some teachers would appreciate they share with the class. Parent participation may also encourage the children in the classroom; they can see their presence as support or a reason the work harder. As for how teachers benefit from parents in the classroom, it may help with children’s behaviors, lesson the workload, and of course strengthens the bond between school and home.