Summer vacation is over and school is back in session. am I the only one that feels like it completely flew by?
Well, wether it did for you or not, we are back to another school year watching our littles move up to another grade. Lesson plans are drawn up and bulletin boards are decorated. The new school year is here, and everything you need to know about your child's class, curriculum, and expectations are addressed at one particularly important event: OPEN HOUSE for back-to-school night!
It may be tempting to skip your child's back-to-school night, but attending comes with an array of benefits. Not only will you become familiar with the staff and classroom, but you will also have peace of mind knowing more about where your child spends most of their time during the week. Teachers take a lot of time to prepare for this night and the information they will provide is one you won't want to miss!
But What "OPEN HOUSE" For Back To School Night?
Most schools hold a back-to-school night, which allows parents and students to check out the classroom, meet faculty members, and find out what is in store for the upcoming school year.
The main purpose is for parents to meet their child's teacher and get a 1 on 1 plus get important information.
Here are more reasons to make back-to-school night a priority.
It’s a Chance To Ask Questions
This is where you get to meet your child's Teacher and have a 1 on 1 conversation about your child and your expectations. It is important that you take this opportunity to ask questions such as....
What will be expected academically of my child this year?
How do you differentiate to meet the needs of each individual student?
What are my options if my child is below in an area or needs extra help?
Can I come to your class to volunteer?
What is the best way to contact you?
What supplies do you need for your class that I can donate?
When are the testing dates?
Is tutoring available this year?
How can I help my child study?
What resources can I get from you to help and support my child at home academically?
Remember, no topic is off-limits when it comes to your child's academic success. Asking questions isn't just helpful—it shows that you care about and are interested in your child's education.
You'll Learn How To Help Your Child at Home
Our amazing teachers are always spending time with your child, so they're the only ones who can tell you how to work with your child at home to help them succeed this year.
Back-to-school night provides an opportunity to talk more in-depth with your child's teacher about what you can do outside of school hours to facilitate improvements in the classroom. Be sure to ask about any ideas and extra resources that can help.
You Get To See Your Child's Classroom & environment!
Visiting a back-to-school night can give you significant insight into the classroom environment. Here are some key things to look out for..
What is the teacher's personality like? (Are they strict, silly, fun, or loud?)
How will the teacher's personality mesh with your child?
What is the classroom setup like? (Will they be seated all day at a desk, or is the seating more flexible with rugs, mats, etc.?)
What is the overall vibe of the classroom? (Is it loud and busy or quiet and calm?)
Most importantly, gauge how you believe your child will interact in their classroom setting. You will be able to determine rather quickly whether they will thrive or need a little help—so be sure to address any questions or concerns you have.
Build Relationships
Our ack-to-school night helps ensure that parents and teachers are on the same page when it comes to the child's best interests. Building a solid foundation of communication is essential for a smooth school year.
Meet the teacher and this will show your child that you are both on the same page will set the tone for the entire yea.
You also get a chance to meet other parents and get contact information. Remember to always keep building your village.
You Give and Get Important Contact Info
When you meet with the teacher, you'll have a chance to ask how and when to contact them during the school year. Get the scoop on how and when to reach her. When you can get to volunteer in the classroom and how you can help.
Create More Confidence
Heading to your child's back-to-school night can mean more confidence for both you and your child. When you are able to walk the halls of the school, meet the staff and fellow students, and get to know the teacher, it boosts confidence and excitement for the new school year.
It Shows That You Value You Child’s Education
Making your child's back-to-school night a priority speaks volumes about your interest in their education. Your involvement sends a positive message to both your child and the teacher.
Back-to-school night attendance shows teachers that school is important to the family, and it’s a message to the student that it’s important too. Talk about first impressions!
Not only does it demonstrate your appreciation for your child's education, but it shows that you are committed to building and maintaining essential relationships.
Overall, remember to put yourself in your child's shoes and ask as many questions as you'd like. At the end of the day, school shouldn't just be a daily task—it should be fun. Attending back-to-school night is one of the best ways to set your child up for a successful, enjoyable year.
Research shows that happiness—from elementary age to high school age—is positively correlated with motivation and academic achievement.1 Attending your child's back-to-school night helps to ensure that you are setting them up for a positive, successful school year.
Sincerely,
A Mom that cares!
