As you drop your child off for their first day of kindergarten, it can be overwhelming to watch them take this next little step towards independence. It’s important to remember, however, that you’re still the best advocate for your child.
You want to make sure your child gets the best education possible. Here are four ways to do that this year.
How To Be An Effective Advocate For Your Child This Year
#1: Be Informed
Go to parent-teacher conferences and ask plenty of questions – your child will behave differently at school than they do when they’re at home, so taking the time to ask their teacher plenty of questions will help you know exactly what’s going on. If your child has special learning or attention issues, read all you can on the topic. The more you know, the more effective you’ll be as an advocate for your child.
#2: Stay Organized
You’ll want to keep all of your child’s relevant paperwork on file so that you can refer back to it if need be. This includes:
- Report cards
- Progress reports
- Evaluations
- Medical records
- Homework samples
- Your child’s IEP, if applicable
#3: Communicate With Your Child
The best way to know what school is like for your child is to talk to them about it! Ask them how school is going, how they’re feeling, what they’re excited about or worried about. Spend quality time together building up the skills they’ll need for kindergarten and beyond, like reading together! Staying tuned in to your child’s thoughts and moods will help you advocate more effectively.
#4: Communicate With Your Child’s Teacher
Building up a good relationship with your child’s teacher, and staying in touch, is key to being an advocate for your child. You and your child’s teacher both want the best for them. Again, take advantage of parent-teacher conferences by asking plenty of questions. Stay involved in the classroom by volunteering to be room mom, or taking advantage of other volunteer opportunities when you can. Checking in regularly can help prevent miscommunication.
You are your child’s best voice in the school system while they’re young. Taking an active role in their education will make you an effective advocate for your child! Looking for a kindergarten or preschool that wants to set your child up for success as much as you do?
Click here to set up a tour of one of our Fusion Early Learning Centers.
