I am both a parent and a teacher, which means I have been to my fair share of open houses and meet-the-teacher nights (AKA Back to School night, curriculum night). I know some parents dread these events and find a reason to skip out, but I think they are very important, no matter what grade your child is in.
Here are five reasons you should attend your child's open house:
1. You care.
By simply showing up, you are showing your child that you are a supportive parent. You show them that you care about their school environment and where they are spending most of their day during the school year.
2. You are showing your child that learning is the top priority.
Have you ever heard your child say, “Why do I even need to learn that?” If not, chances are you will at some point! By taking an active role and showing up at open houses and other school functions, you are showing your child you believe learning and education is your child's top priority.
3. You get the chance to meet other parents.
Plus, you might actually strike up some friendships of your own! If the event is child-friendly, you will get to meet the kiddos who play at recess and work in groups with your child. You will be able to attach a name to a face when your child is telling you about their day.
If the event is just for parents, you'll get the opportunity to talk to other parents in an adult environment (I love that part!) and exchange numbers. That way you can ask questions about homework, set up a playdate ... or even a coffee date with a new friend.
4. You are opening the line of communication between you and your child’s teacher.
Teachers feel more at ease when it comes to communication if they know parents are taking an active role in their child's education. Knowing the teacher also helps you feel more at ease when you need to reach out to them. Plus, you can get a feel for the teacher's personality, style, and relationship with your child.
5. You might learn something new about your child.
Teachers see a different kid than you see. It’s true! When you attend events, not only are you getting to know the teacher, you are getting to know another side of your child.
I love when I tell parents that their child is quiet during the day and they look at me like, “Who? My kid? He never stops talking and interrupting at home!” Or when they see a goofy picture I have hanging up and they see that their child is comfortable in the classroom and acts like themselves. Visiting your child's classroom and teacher can give you a whole new perspective!
I want to go, but I can't!
OK, now that you know why it's important to go, what should you do if you can't make it? I know jobs and other obligations can prevent parents from attending back-to-school or meet-the-teacher nights. So what can you do?
1. Email or call the teacher.
Let the teacher know that you wish you could attend, but your schedule doesn't allow it. Make it clear you are invested in your child's education and that you're always willing to meet or talk if the teacher has any questions or issues. Open communication is important between a teacher and parent.
2. Reschedule if you can.
Ask if there is another time that you can stop in and see the classroom and talk with the teacher.
3. Send in a substitute.
Ask your brother, sister, mom, dad, or anyone else who has a close relationship with you and your child to be your proxy and go in your place. They can introduce themselves to the teacher and report back to you (and maybe even send some classroom pictures).
Studies show parents who are involved in their child's education perform better in school. So make the effort to attend school events and stay in touch with your child's teacher. It's worth it!
(Wondering what teachers want from parents? We asked, and they answered. Read "Teachers Tell All: Here's What They Need From You This School Year.")
Nicole Zawidski is the assistant publisher of Macaroni Kid Quakertown-Doylestown and Macaroni Kid Allentown. She is also an award-winning educator and a mom of two.
