How Families Can Get Involved in Preschool

Topics: School Life 

Age Range: Preschool 

According to Diane Levin, Ph.D., of Wheelock College, a positive preschool-parent relationship “demonstrates to your child that he can trust his teacher, because you do.” Also, research shows that parents who get involved in daycare end up helping their child both academically and socially.

By observing the interactions between you and their preschool, your child learn important life skills such as compromise, reasoning, respect for others’ opinions, and a sense of community. With a consistent home and preschool relationship, your child will feel more secure, and can learn about their world more confidently.

Here are some ideas for showing support and getting more involved with your child’s preschool.

Join a parent committee

Many preschools encourage active parent involvement with committees. For example, our Coral Gables preschool's PAK (Parent's Association of KLA) consists of volunteer parents who collaborate with our staff to create and organize special events, fundraisers, and other school functions that may take place throughout the school year.

Parents may join a committee to help plan events, organize field trips, assist with fundraising, and more. Your child’s preschool may need help on a case-by-case or ongoing basis.

Participate in community outreach and events

If your child’s preschool holds volunteer or community service events, it can be an ideal time to get involved. By joining your child’s preschool in these endeavors, your child will gain a sense of community pride and belonging, as well as learning empathy.

Attend a parents’ night

A good preschool will welcome parental involvement and get to know the parents of each student. Ask if your child’s preschool has social events for parents and families such as assemblies or picnics. Some schools also encourage parents to drop in to tell a story, play, or just to say hi.

Check in with your child’s teachers regularly

Stable, quality relationships during a child’s early years are fundamental for developmental outcomes later in life. To this end, a good preschool will collaborate with you in your child’s education, offering support and strategies that you can continue to use at home. In addition to any regular reports you get about your child, turn to your child’s preschool teachers for their input on any number of things from fun and healthy snack ideas to the latest news in early childhood education. Regular discussions are an ideal way to stay involved with your child’s teachers and the preschool in general.

Strong involvement in your child’s preschool can help you ensure your child is developing and thriving. Collaboration between teachers, parents and the children is an integral part of the educational experience at KLA Schools. Contact your local school today to learn more about PAK, or to join.