Parent Involvement: Why it Matters and How to Find the Right Fit

Choosing the right child care or preschool program isn't just about location, hours, or curriculum. One of the most important, and often overlooked, factors is how the program invites parents to be part of their child's early learning journey.

Parent involvement creates a partnership between families and educators, supporting children in feeling safe, valued and ready to thrive. Here's why it matters, and how to find a program that aligns with your family's expectations.

Early childhood education works best as a team effort between the child's family and the teachers/administrators at the school. When parents and educators share information, communicate openly, and support each other, children benefit in powerful ways. Research shows that parent involvement effects children in many ways. To begin, parents involved in their child's preschool experience improves children's school readiness and confidence. It also supports stronger social emotional development in children and builds consistency between home and school routines. Children thrive when they know the important adults in their lives are working together, and by working together parents and teachers can help identify and address challenges early.

There are different levels of parent involvement, and every school is different. It doesn't always mean volunteering in the classroom, and can take on many forms. Parent involvement may look like open communication, family events, decision making opportunities or at-home support. When you're touring a child care program, you should get a feel for what the schools expectations are for involvement. Make sure to ask questions about communication, openness, school philosophy and flexibility to help you get a feel for how welcome you will be in the program. A program that encourages parent partnership shows respect for the crucial roll families play in a child's early years.

Every family has a different comfort level and availability for involvement, and finding the right fit is important. Some parents want to volunteer regularly, while others may prefer to participate in occasional events or focus on strong communication at home. The right fit is one where you feel like a valued partner, not just a client.