Parents, participate in your children’s learning so they know you value their education now and in the future. Over 40 years of research shows that when families are active in their child’s school activities and learning, students are more likely to:

• Attend school regularly
• Earn better grades
• Enroll in higher-level programs, and eventually . . .
• Finish school and graduate!

Start early to help your child succeed. Step away from the daily grind—February 13–17, 2017—and step into your child’s school for Take Your Family to School Week.

Here are some ways you can be more involved in your child’s school:

Help create a safe and supportive learning environment for your child

Helping create a positive school environment is one of the most effective ways to make your child feel safe and valued. Partner with your child’s teacher and with other children’s parents and caregivers to create a welcoming community. Discuss with your child what they like about their classroom and which things bother them.

Celebrate different cultures

Your child can learn so much from their peers’ different cultures and will be excited to have you share your family’s culture in return. Support events such as a global cuisine night—a storytelling gathering where volunteers share traditional food and legends—or class activities that celebrate family history.

Support creativity

Ask your child to point out their artwork displayed on the classroom wall, or attend a classroom performance.

Share your talents

Organize a Creative Career Day—or visit the classroom—to share what you do with your child’s classmates. Firefighters, artists, bus drivers, waitresses, veterinarians, stay-at-home parents, barbers, nurses, or teachers—the list goes on and on. No matter what your job is, children will love to hear about it!

Want to learn more? Visit www.pta.org/TYFTSW.

Photos © iStock

Message in a Backpack™ is available online in Spanish. Visit NAEYC.org/tyc to start reading now!