A familiar institution uses the local school board to do charity work and expend emotional support to families and students. Social activities are encouraged to create closer interaction and inclusion. 

As a former administrator, the staff and myself mandate ourselves to ensure we do home visits. We visit the homes of our students and talk with parents. This slowly broke the trend of teacher and parent communication solely for admin purposes. Our visits entail talking to the parent about how their child is doing well, what the strengths of their children are, and how we can work together in the future. It worked really well. 

A School am familiar with: The headteacher ensured that parents are called to school for consultative meetings. First,  was the effort of having a PTA chairperson who was active and available, someone who could convince fellow parents on the objectives that the parents had to achieve. One of the major projects was to raise funds to cater for students who had challenges in paying fee and were often out of school. the parents felt included and were willing to contribute , this led to the affected students to attend school throughout and they did well in their final exams

Some of the ways this particular school works with families are:

1. Creating chat forums e.g. Whatsapp parent groups so that parents can communicate with class teachers frequently. Issues and solutions can be discussed.

2. Creating homework centres to cater for kids who need additional help and to assist parents where the home environment may be difficult for the child to work in.

3. Integrating short development sessions for parents in areas where they may need assistance. These sessions are introduced during parent meetings at school.

This familiar school work with families by 

• becoming familiar with community issues and families' home cultures.
• using community resources.
• inviting families to observe in the classroom.
• working as partners with families to improve learning.
• quickly respond to families' concerns about their children.

The parents when registering their child have to complete a registration form with their financial and personal information. This gives teachers and other staff members and idea of the child's background and how staff can work with the family in terms of charity or a particular item. All families need to feel important and this school ensures that.

By having Parent Teachers Association in school.

Since we are in this pandemic, schools can work with parents or families through the following:

• Chatroom forums such as SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook etc., where parents can communicate with the class teacher and principal of the school.
• Have P.T.A meetings via online platforms such as Zoom and Google meet.
• Email memos, letters or relevant information about the schools' activities so they can keep abreast of what is happening during the academic term/year.
• Principal can do home visit for the children who are not participating or non-attendance.

A primary school in my village works with parents and guardians to provide porridge for the learners to take during the 10.00 o'clock break time. Every parent/guardian is expected to take the specified nutritious flour to the school at a specified time of the school term. This is initiative is meant to keep the students attentive during lessons. This project was started due to the fact that some children leave for school very early without having taken breakfast.

There are various ways that schools work to be familiar with families

1. Setting up a School Parents/Teachers Association and by extension have meetings at least once per term to meet and engage with the parents/families

2. Academic Review Conferences where Parents would meet with their children's teachers to review their academic progress

3. Use of Extra-Curricular Activities such as Bazaars, Walkathons, Sports Day, Food Fund Raiser Events to meet and work alongside the parents for the betterment of the school .

4. Use of social media groups to connect with parents so that they can be aware of different events taking place within the school.

One way a school I'm familiar with works with families is through home visits. This is where students and the teacher visit each student's home and offer to assist them as a part of community service day. This enables the teacher and other students to get to know each other on a more personal basis and to encourage parents to collaborate with the school and class teacher. 

A Pre-school I visited made a good impression.  Class teacher organises for some parents to sit in class with the  children as long as the parents could. I did so once though i did not have a child in the class- infact i was surveying just to have a feel of what it is like to teach pre-school. The experience was owesome, the little voices never stop, participation of most was at top gear but two children silently sat unconcerned.  I was amazed how the two teachers coped every day and on enquiring why the two kids were silent and no one was bothering them, i was told by the teachers that they were unwell but had insisted on coming to school.

 There were two other parents in class who were working with the children unperturbed.  This was a great way of the school working with families.  

The school that I work with create regular career days, so parents can come in and speak about the different jobs they do and interact with children. Children dress up like what they want to be on that day.

Also we have community workshops to educate the community on topics relating to family care like food and nutrition, transition and family planning.

There are also outreach programs like hamper distribution and family days activities is school.

Parents are involved in social events at the school, such as cultural days, celebrations, sport and family days and so on. Parents are not only invited to sit in the audience, but they take an active role in preparation and/or participating in activities. It important that parents feel that their contributions are valued. Also, at times, parents are asked to work with their child on a particular project, for example, children may have planted seeds at school which they later take home to care for with parents help.

At a school with which I am familiar, the Principal encourages weekly visits by parents so that they can interact with the class teacher and discuss any issues the child may have. Parent/teacher consultations are done regularly as well. This partnership between the school and the home is very important as it can improve students performance, aid in motivation and develop a common understanding between these two very important stakeholders. 

In one of the school I taught there was a policy where when one of the student was bereaved the classmates and the staff raised money to support the family. A group representing the class and the school visited the family to give the money and pray with them and eventually attended the burial. This formed good and strong relationship between the school and the community around the school.

A school I'm familiar with works with families by communicating with them via WhatsApp groups and their Facebook page about day to day activities and social and school related activities and milestones.

PTA meetings are being done via Zoom especially for this COVID period.

Saturday tutorials are held by volunteer teachers including the head teacher, to lend additional aid to exam students. 

Parent conferencing is one of the ways I have seen a school that I am familiar with working with families. Through parent conferencing

1. Parents interact on a face-to-face basis with staff.

2. Information is shared regarding the child's progress during a given term.

3. Anecdotal observations and recordings are disclosed along with samples of children's work.

4. Bio-data not found in the registration and enrollment forms is requested.

5. Confidentiality and school/home or teacher/ parent bonds become more solidified.

6. Recommendations based on observations and other data collection sources are used to encourage parents to have the child screened for learning delays or disabilities, or to encourage home/school teaching and learning strategies for facilitating the needs of the child.

At a school I am familiar with both principal and teachers play an active role in building strong partnerships with parents and other stakeholders. Monthly PTA (virtual meetings) are now held, and parents attendance and participation in discussions are excellent. Additionally, resource personnel make valuable contributions in the meetings on relevant topics such as "Online safety for parents and kids", "Counselling during a pandemic", and "Emotional support for home schooling", to name a few. 

Additionally, an open door policy is practiced with both parents and teachers. All teachers communicate regularly with parents through group chats (WhatsApp) and E-mails. Here, they can provide extra assistance where necessary. Also, parents have access to Guidance officers, Social workers and even NGO's groups like "Childline".

Our school does a lot of charity work and provides support to families in times of difficulty. This allows for a close knit community and more inclusivity.

A school that I am familiar with works with families through involving them in various activities. Examples are inviting parents to come at the school to read or play games with the children, social events, parent teacher conferences and PTA. They have social events such as fundraisers, sports,  and family days, cultural days, graduations etc. in which parents can attend and even volunteer to help in particular areas. This fosters and builds positive relationships with the parents and even the community members. 

Another way which can be helpful is we ask parents to form committess within the school such as helping hands and events group. to extend with this group parents are part of planning for events, fundraisers and assisting the school when necessary such as repairs to name a few. This approach we see parents are very supportive and they get their extended family or community involved as well.

1. Through Newsletters - parents knows of all activities and events that is taking place in the school.

2. Parent Support Meeting - Through this types of meeting the parents will know, how their child is progressing and what strategies both the parent and the teacher can use to assist the child

3. Field Trips - helps the child and in some cases parents explore the nature and their environment. They are hands on experiences that helps the child gain knowledge about the world around them.

4. 

A school I am familiar with has a system where each class has two parent representatives.  These parent representative play a vital role as they convey messages from parents to teachers and assist parents in any matters or concerns which may arise from time to time.  The deans, form teachers, and subject teachers are also readily available to parents through parental whatsapp groups, and email. 

A school that I am familiar with has been using parent conferencing, resource making for special events, parent partnerships where parents are encourage to teach a cooking activity or read to children on world literacy day. Information sharing information, advice, and solutions are carried out on the parent WhatsApp chat group.

Post Covid-19 children and families have been receiving online support that has met with resounding success.  Teachers give guidance to parents re daily activities, child development, building self- esteem, promoting self-care, preparing children for transitioning, behaviour management, life-skill training and much more.

Parents are invited to participate in school events, do assemblies on specific topics and assist in monitoring of children when necessary. The school is in a real community so feeling as if they are a part of the family is essential and encouraged.

It is very important to establish a good working environment with all families. In previous schools I have been the PTA'S plays an important role creating a bridge with families and teachers. Families in need are identified and a plan to help them is created.

A school I am familiar with works with their families by having regular Parent/Teacher interaction when parents drop off and pick up their child/children at school. In light of Covid-19, the school teachers now utilize the various social media platforms to work with families.

A school I worked in organized  regular academic meetings where all  subject teachers, students and parents of a particular class met and discussed the performance and welfare of students. Possible solutions to challenges experienced were brought forth. In one such meeting, the plight of one student who had challenges in fee payment was highlighted and a group of parents took a collective responsibility of paying his fees up to completion as well as meet his upkeep expenses.  

Other ways in which schools can work with families are through:

 ·        Educational Development Forum (EDF) an umbrella community based organization which works in line with the PTA and SBMC in supporting the development of the school.

·        Old Boys Association (OBA) who supports their schools in areas of needs

·        Occupational based groups and cooperatives such as farmers’ associations which work hand in hand with other with the SBMC, PTA and the PED

·        Traditional institution which comprise an educated and versatile village head that supports educational development of the community under his jurisdiction.

·        Philanthropists who take on definite projects in schools

·        Female Leader Forum linking with other CSOs, for mutual assistance where skills are lacking (e.g. around children with special educational needs)

Several ways a school I am familiar with works with families are :

1. Parents Support Group- this takes place once or twice a term. All issues of the school is discussed. Parents are allowed to ask questions and share their views. Parents can also meet with the teachers privately and discuss any issues they might have. 

2. Parent Conference - each term, teacher and child discuss the child's growth and development. They share ways in which they can help and support the child both at home and in school. 

3. WhatsApp group - this is used to share any information the school might have or questions or concerns parents may have. During Covid 19, this has proven to be very effective since children are at home and parents are doing most of the work with their child. Parents would share their completed activities on the group, other parents who do not understand would look at it and gets a better understanding of how to do it. 

Some ways in which a familiar school works with families are:

1. Through Newsletters - parents knows of all activities and events that is taking place in the school.

2. Parent Support Meeting - Through this type of meeting the parents will know, how their child is progressing and what strategies both the parent and the teacher can use to assist the child

3. Field Trips - helps the child and in some cases, parents explore the nature and their environment. They are hands on experiences that helps the child gain knowledge about the world around them.

Due to the COVID 19 pandemic school are no longer facilitated in a school building. Communication is carried over digital platforms Teams and WhatsApp. Parent support meeting are held through these platforms. Parents who need social welfare form sign will indicate on the chat their concerns and the administrator give them a date  and interactions are carried out.  Children work are posted by parents and  teachers' respond.  If there is a problem parents  will indicate and teachers'  help if they can. During this pandemic  some parents contacted  a teacher there had no food. The teacher and other people in the community pool resources and made hampers for them.

1. Parent -teacher conference - Teachers  communicate with parents in terms of their children's progress.Teachers based on their observations and use of children's work give feedback to the parents and  the parents are given the opportunity  to ask questions, share what they observe  as well in working with their children and both teacher and parents work together to share ideas and strategies they can incorporate to provide necessary support  where it is needed. Have discussions about what is positive and also where their children need support  and scaffolding in their learning and development. 

2.  Parents are included in working  together with the school for events and celebrations  ( preparation and active participation), also  they are part of the resource personnel when doing themes and projects.  E.g if we are doing a theme about  occupations parents are given the opportunity   to share with the children about what they do and their skills. They have an interactive session with the children where they can learn about various jobs and ask questions. 

3. PTA meetings and workshops for parents.  In recent times PTA meetings are being done online each term. Parents are given the opportunity  to share their experiences in that transition  to online school for their children, they can ask questions ,talk about concerns, challenges etc.Workshops are interactive and seek to help parents to understand  how to work with their children and educate  them about how they learn at school, preparing them for another level of learning  and the transition  process. 

4. Using the social  media platform WhatsApp to respond  to parents and provide feedback, be available to answer questions, give pointers and strategies  they can use at home with their child to reinforce their learning. Sometimes it is challenge for them to call but they can leave a recording/text  which  you can respond to in a timely manner. Parents especially  with  online school in recent times they communicate  questions about activities,  teachers give updates on children's  progress and work with the parents and provide that support.

On the application form for ECCE Centres, parents are asked to state ways in which they can assist/volunteer at the centre and which days, it can be something as simple as painting or crafting. This way the centre has a resource bank to pull from, and the parents enjoy the experience, while the children develop a sense of pride from the experience. There is an open door policy, and parents can come in and discuss challenges they may have. Not necessarily dealing with their child's academic performance, but issues they may be having at home, whether domestic, financial, health etc. and the Administrator would try to assist by directing them to the relevant personnel, be it the Social Welfare Office, Psychologist, Therapist, as much as possible assistance is given.  Also, the centre collaborates with members of the Village Council (some parents are a part of this group) who assist with the general up keep of the exterior of the building and grounds.

4.2 Working with families.

Some ways that schools can work with families are,

- Parent/ Teacher conferencing- one on one meeting with each parent to discuss to have one on one discussions.

- PTA groups where parents participate in planning for the school

- Use media to communicate with working or busy parents (Facebook, Emails, WhatsApp so information can be shared both ways) or make phone calls

- Parents can come in and do activities with the children, read a book, do craft or an outdoor activities with the children, like gardening, sports, etc. Teachers can plan with parents to ensure that it is developmentally appropriate activities. Have an open day.

- Have workshops, small meetings with parents  

HI,

I can say that the school I am familiar with has a similar operation as the one we read of in the case study in terms of ; parents are always welcomed to the office of the principal, no parent is turned away if they show up to visit with any teacher to discuss any concerns witht heir child.

The Ministry of Education provides meals (breakfast and lunch) for those in need when we are physically at school and the principal and staff ensure all students are comfortable.

PTA meetings are timed based on the suggestions of the parents and so attendance has improved. They have been working closely with the school to help in as many issues as they can.

The staff has really been a caring family to all students at the school.

Regards,

Michelle

At the school, parents are welcome to talk about any issues it is an open door policy.  The local school board also supports families. The administrator will also have specialist officers to support parents. Having parent’s support group meeting to listen to parents.

The community in which the school that I am currently working at can be describe as an urban one. This school works with families by welcoming parents into the school to discuss any matters or concerns they may face, hosting regular P.T.A meetings and allow parents to voice their concerns and dilemmas. Furthermore, the parents have compliant about purchasing of textbook is to expensive for them so the school with their teams such as the community members who can afford these textbook donated a wide variety for each level. 

Thank you Patricia, Michelle, Counsil and Sawh for your great contributions.

The school I was at previously identified students who were at risk due to financial situations/poverty and we all worked together with the community and parent body to assist the families by providing them with food hampers. These families are kept private and confidential. This ensured that children would not attend school hungry. Additionally, there is a School Feeding Programme in place which is put on by the Ministry of Education which provides free daily lunches to cater to the nutrition needs of at risk students.

The School Based Management Committees (SBMCs) and School Governing Boards (SGBs), of which the parents'representatives are members, are fully involved in school administration and play key roles in raising funds for the upkeep of the schools.

The involvement of parents makes it easy to actualiase development plans that is participatorily articulated.

The schools have been better for it.

A school I am familiar with works with families in the following ways:

First and foremost there is an 'open door policy" whree parents can come in to discuss matters concerning their children.

Secondly, any student who has an identified need is afforded financial help to enable the child to participate in school. In the past whether it was food hampers or a pair of shoes assistance was given. In recent times even devices have been outsourced for students to participate in online learning.  

Thirdly, students with identified special learning needs are referred to student support services to begin accessing any special interventions.

Next, students who are experiencing problems that affects then emotionally or socially are referred to the school guidance counselor to intervene. 

Finally, parents of students who are absent from school without excuse for more than two days are contacted to ensure that all is well with the child or the home. 

I went to a school that did their best to ensure that all students had everything they needed to succeed. They provided books for those without, uniforms for those without. Extra tutoring for those having difficulty. Vocational classes for parents who may want/need it.

I am familiar with a school that works closely with families by creating a very inclusive environment. It begins with the open-house sessions for potential families considering this school for the child. Instead of providing the usual on-campus tour, the school hosts sessions that encourage open conversations about the school and the culture. If their child joins this school, the open conversations continue. Parents are encouraged to actively participate in their child's school experience. This approach helps the school, the instructors, the students and the families stay connected and work towards a common goal. 

Hi Everyone,

Our school has been partnering with the school community, especially now, with online teaching/learning.  Our school has involved all stakeholders in the school community to assist in the acquisition of sponsorship of devices for students who are in need.

The staff has also donated towards a hamper drive as a relief effort for parents who have become unemployed as a result of COVID 19 precautions implement by our country.

Regards

Kamaldaye

In some schools the curriculum has subjects and topics that might call for experts from the community to teach e.g. traditional cultural dances or creative arts e.g. basket or mat making. this enhances the relationship between school and communities

There are a number of needy families in the community and as such parents are unable to purchase texts, school supplies, uniforms and food etc. In such cases the school in collaboration with the PTA provides hampers, assists with uniforms and school supplies to ensure that students are not left behind.

Staff member, families and community member can come together and hold fundraisers. The income made can then be used to uplift the school or too help needy families.

A school I am familiar with works with families by the open door/communication approach. Administrators and Teachers encourage parents to attend an annual meeting to discuss and plan a solid academic strategy that will benefit the child. Both parent and teacher work with a common goal in mind that will bring success to the student in the end. When the teacher administers these strategies in the classroom, at home, it is further continued in order to structure the child/children into a concrete routine thus bringing in higher grades, better attitudes and behaviours and an overall feeling of support and ease for all parties. Parents can come in at reasonable times to follow up on the progress of students. If there happens to be any disturbance on either end, there are guidance officers or social workers available to assist in certain situations.

 As an educator, I am responsible for developing the necessary capabilities in order to create an environment that is accommodating to every parent regardless of age, gender, race, socio- economic status, religion and cultural differences. In my learning environment, I am responsible for equipping parents with the necessary tools and resources as a means of developing and improving parenting skills/ overall practices. Parents are given the support through meaningful parent teacher relationship established at the very beginning. For the most part, my role is clearly outlined and I am committed to helping children achieve their dreams and aspirations by working positively with their families.

In these times...our school opens the communication by opening our Learning Management System every 3 weeks for parents to view the child's academic progress. They not only see grades, but also specific comments by teachers. They can refer their concerns with individual teachers and get advice on how to help their child. A lot of calls are entertained when the academic progress is open/available.

Working with families in schools helps to extend teaching outside the classroom as well as it helps students to perform better academically.  There is a school that I know of which fosters family involvement by encouraging them to participate in culturally relevant activities such as national and religious holidays. This not only allows teachers to bring a rich cultural content in the classroom but it helps students develop knowledge, interest, national pride and show respect towards each other.

Another way in which schools can work with parents is through Parent/ Teacher Conferences. With this the teacher gets to have that one on one time with the parent where they can freely and confidential share information, issues or problems they may have and in turn the teacher can share advice.

I believe families care about the value of education for their children; some maybe more than others. However, as teachers we ought to encourage ALL families to be part of the process for an  individualized approach.

As we are not in the physical classroom, I think having a forum such as "Wats app" can be used to reach families and encourage general and individual communication. Wats app may be frowned upon as an informal/ unprofessional medium, if not all but most families can be reached via this medium.

In our school we work with a Parents, Teachers Association ( P.T.A.). Every month the administration meets with the P.T.A. to discuss about the activities that take place in school. After the meeting then the administration meet with the staff to discuss what happened in the meeting with the P.T.A. Then we take decisions, either to move forward with their ideas or adjust and move on. The parents involved compromise to pass on the message and involved other parents to help with the activities that will take place.  

A parent/teacher communication book can be placed in the child’s bag and used for communication on a daily basis. Not only does this tool allow for parents and teachers to communicate more regularly, it also provides evidence of communication as well as details of the information shared. I have used this tool with some of my students and it has been very effective for directly sending and receiving information to and from parents when children have drivers or parents are unable to meet often enough for one on one discussions.

A school I am familiar with has parent's days where they meet with parents after which whats app groups are formed to allow for communication with parents. They also do community work where parents are allowed to come out and assist. This builds a relationship between the parents and the teachers. This makes the parents feel comfortable enough to bring issues or concerns they have to the teachers.

a familiar school sends videos of children successfully participating in an activity as a means of reassurance to a concerned parent who is unable to be present  

In this time of Covid-19, A school that I am familiar with works with families by the use of WhatsApp group chat, SMS messaging and phone calls. We also use the Microsoft TEAMS platform for Parent Teacher Support meeting, Parent- Teacher Conferencing, Parent Educational workshop and Farewell to Friends to mention a few. These platforms are used to share and discuss information which helps to build positive relationship. 

Hi everyone,

One example I remember was the "Painting Our School Day". We asked parents to come out and help paint the school. Everyone was involved, us teachers, parents, children, even other community organizations like the Rotary Club participated. It really brought us together. 

Added to that, many schools have Parent/Teachers Associations that is run from the school. This is a group of parents and teachers that meet together with the parents of the children that attend the school to collaborate and help each other. 

WhatsApp groups are formed with the class teacher and the parents so that the teacher can directly interact with the parents when needed. 

A familiar school works with families, enabling them to make decisions about school issues by assuming roles on school board and other leadership positions, for example the fund raising committee, training and workshop committee. Each family is encouraged to sign up for a role of their choice when enrolling their child, this allows parents to be represented and active in all areas of  school affairs

At our school we offer counselling for parents as well because parents face troubles and aren't able to focus on their child who also need their parent's attention and care. We do parent teacher's meeting but most parents don't show up so the virtual meetings work really well. More parents are present. Also, We do check ups on parents with a representer of the school. 

1. What took you so long to do this?

To promote communities, this Head Teacher has already implemented a system to promote communities. He has an open door policy, he is sending Newsletters to the Parents. However, right now it's one way. Invite Parents to give Feedback on topics in the Newsletter on any other areas of concern. The fact is that he has an open door management style that makes it easier for both Parents and Teachers to be able to approach him for any discussion on anything important.

They could create a blog system or some form of electronic communication where they have direct access to the Principal.

3. The Principal could have Town Hall type Meetings where Parents will come to school and have open discussions about anything school related.

4, The Teacher can have Extra-Lessons set up and he or she can ask the other Teachers to volunteer their time. In a case where the Parents are struggling financially, the Teacher can seek financial assistance from businesses in the area.

The school I am familiar with has a form where staff has an idea of the child’s background. From this we will be able to help the child and their families with materials to make learning resources, food hampers, or even some basic necessities. The staff works with other families and other persons from the community to help those in need.

In our context, due to the pandemic, virtual meetings is what is working to contact as many parents to inform them about the objectives and plans and programs of the school. Setting up appointments for the ones without access to devices or internet is another way by which the schools contact and inform parents. Workshops can be another form to work with families. Recently, grocery bags and school supplies were handed to the needy. This was possible with the partnership of our local churches.

An example of how a school I know works with families is when teachers observe particular struggles with children and their families when opportunities arise they make all the necessary arrangements for that family to get help. This can be in the form of hampers given out by a community business or even one made by teachers working together. Also there have been time that teachers "gift" some children around Christmas time with necessary items needed, such as a new bag, shoes or undergarments.

They have parent education workshops which educate parents on child raring practices, as well as other topics that may interest them.

At our school we use calendar events to gather with parents and create a family like setting where we bond and build  relationships where parents feel comfortable to talk to teachers freely.  For instance with mother's day approaching we would usually have a spa day or and mommy and me tea party, where mothers are encouraged to come out to school with their children and share in fun events throughout the day.  We have also had Father's day cookout as well where both parents come to the centre with their child and the fathers have a friendly cookout competition with the mothers cheering them on.  

Working in an early childhood environment it is essential to have a connection to the parents and caregivers as you work for the holistic development of the child. in my experience over the years within both private and public establishments I had the opportunity to provide food hampers, free schooling (within the private institution), listen to parents as well as assist parents who were unable to read and write. In addition once every academic year teachers meet with parents at individual parent teacher conference where the strength and weaknesses of the students are discussed and suggestions are given for improvement.

There is always need for funds for resources, therefore a great example of working with families is by having a concert as a fundraiser. Through a concert I can see exposure to the school as families will see their children perform. They will have an insight of the ethos and culture of the school as they work with staff to prepare for the concert. There will also be exposure for others in the community to assist in anyway they can. Some of the proceeds can go towards the stipend of a specialist or much needed learning aid.

An example of the way that the school which I attached to works with families is the use of the School Social Worker. The School Social Worker assist with the  breaking down of barriers that prevent learning. 

The professional form relationship with parents and teachers to meet the child's needs. The family may need financial support, the social worker liaise with another organization that provides grants for needy family. This would be done my referrals or consultations with the organization.

The school has academic days when parents come to school and meet the teacher in charge of class with the child. The teacher gets information about the behaviour of the child at home and the teacher gives a report about them behaviour of the child at school. Then teacher,! parent and the child plan together on how to help the child. If the child has unique needs and the teacher knows a specialist that can help, refers the parent.

Building strong parent - teacher relationships improves the attitudes, social skills and working habits of children. When creating this partnership, educators must provide the three C's communication, consistency, and collaboration.

1. Communication is a two way transmitter it gives a teacher a better understanding of the culture, beliefs, strengths and weakness of a child. Parents are well informed about the happenings at school.

2. Consistency is reflected through the dedication of parents and teachers creating routines and reinforcing concept at home. This partnership enhance the learning of children.

3. Collaboration through planning positive strategies and ideas will allow the children to reach their highest potential.

Home visits is another way to meet families who need assistance with counselling, interventions or any medical assistance. 

An example of a school that I am familiar with that works with families is by having an educator who is trained in family studies and social development that visit families at their homes, if their has been a problem that the teacher has observed or an incident that has happened in the community that may be affecting the family. 

Working with families is among the bedrock of any School.Consulting/interacting with families give a support to inclusive education. So Schools  PTA and SBMC  should be handled with care in all respect.

There is a welfare committee set up to meet the needs of families. The families in need are provided assistance by the school through the provision of school uniforms and school books. Hampers are provided for those who are out of jobs and together with the business community in the area, jobs are sourced.

One way that I believe educators can meet families are through home visits. Some parents are private and through this forum the needs of counseling, intervention and medical assistance families can be assisted. Building strong parent teacher relationships improves, the attitudes, social skills and working habits of a child.

At one of the schools I worked in had an annual cooking competition, 'Dads can Cook Too.' Fathers from the four classes would form groups and vie for 'Best Presentation,' 'Best Taste,' and 'Best Creativity.' Tents provided extra space for extended families, and everyone felt a sense of community and welcome. The children participated in fun and interesting games and staff and select family members had various roles and responsibilities. This was one of the ways the school worked with families in nurturing relationships.

At an institution that I am familiar with the principal and her team work with families through PTA meetings for parents to voice their concerns. The parents participation in discussions are excellent. This forum will allow teachers also to share different activities that is taking place at the school.

In addition, each class has a WhatsApp group where they can communicate with parents at a class level. For parents that are not active on this forum class teacher will reach out by giving the parent a direct call or visit. Teachers and parents work together for the betterment of the child.  Having these forum in place will  give children and families who needs assistance based on different  challenges to get the help they need.

At an ECCE Centre with which I am familiar, one of the ways the school works with families is a Project day that is planned for the end of the school term. On Project Day families are invited to come into the Centre and spend a day and showcase their project based on the term's theme.

Previously, families were informed what the project would be about and are asked to work together with their child and using their creativity to make their project. So on Project day they each have and opportunity to present.

This encourages different families to come together, along with staff and socialize, as light refreshments are also involved. Families get a chance to display their creativity and present in any way they can. Everyone shows appreciation and children feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Through collection of data on each family we are able to assist some with food hampers. The PTA is a fundamental part of this. Having a Special Ed Specialist form Student Support Services Division and a Social Worker helps us to reach those students and homes where more support is needed.  Also for parents who may not wish to speak in an open forum teachers can create online feedback forms so that they feel secure when they respond. One of our stakeholders has also assisted by providing training for parents to learn coping mechanisms when dealing with their children. During this pandemic it became a priority for us to give support in that area due to frustration levels of parents rising especially for the ones with special needs students. 

A school I'm familiar with has a very active Parent Teacher Association (PTA). The principal has recognized the importance of having the parents involved at every stage of the development of their child and as such she has empowered them to become involved in the school.

Many times parents are called to schools to hear about their child's lack of progress or misbehaviours. A strategy to encourage parental involvement is that class teachers can use social media groups to share the positive about different students each week. keeping the connectivity between school and home.

Schools I am familiar with would engage families by having them participate in field trips, cultural shows and/or career fairs.

The school organises training sessions to assist parents with better catering to the needs of their children. Additionally, parents are encouraged to visit the classroom to observe and participate in their child's learning experiences.

A school I am familiar use Parent Teachers Association to discuss major things about the students and in taking decisions or deciding  what they want to be implemented in the school.

Individual parents are also invited during Open Day when parents are invited to discuss how their children are and what could be done to enhance performance

For this activity, I will draw on my experience of when I was an early childhood education private provider.

1. Collaborated with families to support their children's learning and development.

2. We hosted training programmes for parents in various areas after conducting a needs assessment.

3. We built a bank of resource personnel from the parent body and private stakeholders to provide direct assistance to parents whose . Confidentiality contracts were signed.

One school I am familiar with works with parents through their Parent Outreach Program (POP). They assist parents who have low income with skills like craft making to provide for their families. They also offer support for parents who need assistance with teaching their children at home.

As an ECCE teacher, whenever it is noticed that a child may have any sort of disability, we contact relevant authorities to assess the needs of the child so they can render assistance.  We do what we can on our part and work with the said relevant authorities to assist the child.

As an ECCE teacher, A centre that I previously worked in regarded parental involvement and communicating with families as an essential factor in the well-being of the school. For examples, Parents were encourage to attend PTA meetings, workshops were planned and conducted to help parents build of specific skills, Parents were engaged in conducting simple activities with the children (e.g. reading a story, displaying their talents etc..). Families were involved for family/sports day and other events taking place at the centre. Also there was a POP (Parent Outreach Programme) facilitator who visited families in the community to assist. At Christmas time the school will also distribute food hampers to some families within the community. 

Thank you Joseph, Khan and Kathy for your contributions. I'm personally excited about the POP initiatives. This is quite good.

As the E.C.C.E school  we used the school PTA to plan any social activity for the school, We used the school PTA to do charity work in cleaning of the building and compound.

Social activities are encourage to create a closer inclusion with parent,teachers and community. Administrator and teachers had the opportunity to provide the link between parents and school.

examples: Parent/ teacher conferencing,Parent social activity e.g games and finger food , hampers twice for the school  academic year, Open day Parents support group meeting with parents, Ethnic day to show case different culture,and last Work shops for parents.

School and family collaboration and partnership is very important. Adding to the points highlighted in the post Working with Families, I believe another example in which schools can work with parents is to allow parent to be a part of the decision making process concerning certain things in the school. This would foster trust, respect and cooperation with families and would contribute tremendously towards the school and children.

A school I am familiar with involves parents by creating an online database to keep parents updated with students' performance throughout the term. 

Parents are also communicated with as frequently as needed to keep them informed of progress.

To encourage family involvement at the school I work at, we conduct parent social events, parent teacher WhatsApp groups, to show the school care about the child physical needs, we give out food hampers and even source devices for children to access online teaching and learning.  

1. Parent teacher meetings.

2. Open days.

3. Sports days. 

4. Cultural days.

The schools holds regular parent teacher conferences, PTA meetings, cultural functions and it is the accustom of teachers to make contact with parents about concerns relating to their child. 

How can schools work with families?

Schools can work with families to continue to foster good working relationships for the benefit of the child.  

• Allowing parents to volunteer at school where and when necessary.  
• Encourage parents to work with their children on projects.
• Presently with the pandemic, our school supported parents and continue to support parents by telephone, inquiring on the child's progress and if there are ways we can help

Activity 4.2 Working with families

At the school I work family involvement has always been of great importance. Families have been involved in every aspect of the school, from being members of the board to assisting in various projects. When we plan the theme for the term we ensure that there are activities in which families are engage in some sort of project. We also had open days and field trips which includes parents.

Due to the covid - 19 pandemic we have set up whatsapp chat and for those parents who are not on we call regularly to ensure that they are alright and involved.

We also encourage parents to share and help others who are experiencing difficulties. Since the pandemic began we have distributed many hampers courtesy our families.

Note. When we have registration we ask parents to share their talents with us  creating a 'talent bank' in which we can draw from to get assistance.

Parents and the wider community plays a major role in a learning environment.

The following are some ways the staff members work with parents:

- Get them involve in learning activities. Example: Allow them to do a cookery, gardening or story time activity with students.

- Allow them to be involve in P.T.A meetings.

- Get them involved in Fund Raiser, Sports day, etc.

A school that I am familiar with works with families in a magnificent way, the school offers parents the option for breakfast and lunch, in addition we have what's app groups, newsletters, email address of parents and we even send little notes home with children's progress for the day, the parents are free to call us at anytime. The school also provides hampers and necessities for poor parents through stakeholders.

At most schools they usually have meetings with parents at the beginning of the school. It is for both school and parents to have common understandings of the expectations from the school and parents. In addition, they have conferencing day where parents meet with teachers to discuss children's progress and way forward. 

In working with families as the course stated you need to develop parent's trust in you as the educator. One way that this can be done is through informal social events. It can be through cooking competitions, sporting events etc. 

A primary school am familiar with uses what they call "academic day" during which parents with their children interact one on one with the class teacher on the progress of the child every term. They also use diaries to communicate information to parents and vice versa 

The school I currently work with has an Open Door Policy, which gives parents a sense of security and comfort knowing they are always welcomed. It also reassures families that their children are well taken care off.