Module 5-Family and Community Partnerships

Module 5 Discussion Question Family Partnerships

3/4/2015

Many of your students have parents with very busy schedules. Your center is hosting a "Parent's Night" and it is their goal to have as many parents as possible attend the event. You know that this will be a challenge for many. How do you go about trying to get a good turnout for the event?

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210 Comments

Miranda Jones

4/27/2015 04:18:04 am

I would offer free babysitting for their children if parents could come to the Parent's Night. This way parents wouldn't have to stress about getting a babysitter so they could come to an event after hours.

Edith Stillwell

7/27/2016 08:13:16 am

I agree. This works well when events are planned. Many families have a range of ages in their children, and offering "babysitting" will enable parents to come and focus on a specific child, giving that child some parent time too.

Ann Zop

4/27/2015 04:19:56 am

Getting parents to come to an after hours event would be easier if maybe they knew the details of the event. If it was fun and exciting they may be more willing to take the time to attend the event and enjoy it.

Drew

5/8/2015 11:47:14 am

Something we have done is provide babysitting for the even and a small meal, at after hours events. I have also done Saturday events that have a lunch involved and activities for the children.

Kaitlyn

6/8/2015 08:04:42 am

Provide babysitting and fun activities for kids. Provide finger food snacks for parents and kids and make it intertaining and fun

Brett Turner

6/11/2015 02:32:52 am

There should be a two-way communication between parents and the child care staff to see what time would be optimum. Also, provide free child care service during that time so there would be more of an incentive to join.

Jessica Enebo

6/12/2015 07:03:29 am

I would offer two possible dates and times for the parents to be able to work it into their schedule easier as well as give notice long ahead of time in order to give them a chance to fit the event in. In addition child care would be provided.

cindy

6/13/2015 08:26:42 am

We have large events at the nearby parks to attract parents to attend. During summer, fall, halloween, christmas, etc, we will invite many vendors from the community to join our event. After parents pick up their children, they will usually stop by these events since there are arts and crafts, freebies, and food. It is a good chance for staff to get know their family better.

Emily

6/15/2015 03:59:44 am

so i would set a date 2 months out so if parents have to request that time off it gives thier employer ample time to cover. and i would set up a play area and supervision for thier children during the meeting so parents dont have to worry about getting and paying a babysitter.

Ruth W.

6/17/2015 01:02:56 pm

I always think for events to get the best turnout you need to start advertising as soon as possible. Putting up posters, leaving a notification in the computer system that we have, and verbally reminding parents about the Parent Night. Also, I think for many of our parents to get the best turn out we need to have it scheduled for after hours and have dinner provided.

Serena

6/25/2015 04:32:04 pm

I would inform the parents that there is going to be a Parent's Night several weeks in advance, and then remind them about it a couple of times. I would have free babysitting during that time so that the parents didn't have to worry about what to do with their kids. I would also offer snacks and beverages.

Kathryn Mills

6/30/2015 09:12:11 am

I would schedule the event far out enough to give parents notice. And send reminders home with students and also verbally remind them on site. I would also try to figure out a way to have some great food and refreshments and make it fun for the parents and kids. I think having a group activity at first for the kids and parents to break the ice and feel more relaxed would be helpful. Then if it's necessary to meet with just the parents, have supervision for the children. Parents don't always have the opportunity to play with kids or with other adults, so if they have a great time they are more likely to come back to the next event, strengthening the partnership between us and them.

Kiera Moore link

7/1/2015 06:10:04 am

A good way to grab the parents attention would be to have a newsletter a weekly board of up-coming events or a handout, explaining why the event is being held and what the importance is. Allow the newsletter and handout be presented a few weeks before the event.

Mallery Luke

7/6/2015 08:37:31 am

To get a good turnout, parents must be informed well in advanced about the event. I think sending out newsletters, along with reminders when the date gets closer, is a great idea. For the event itself, food should be provided. A free meal and/or snacks always grabs people's attention!

Shawna

7/9/2015 07:57:12 am

Host a parents night on a weekday evening. Utilize the "closing" time as the start time.

Delia Farrell

7/11/2015 01:58:05 am

I would have the event be a couple weeks ahead so the parents will have time to plan, I will provide childcare for the event, and make the event after work hours. When the event is coming up i will send the children home with flyer reminders so that it wont be forgotten about.

Brooke P.

7/15/2015 09:59:42 am

If I want a good turnout for a parents night i would need to plan far enough in the future so that parents have to time plan for it. Maybe send out a newsletter to all parents at least a month before the event. Also make it at a decent time so that parents aren't so rushed to get to the program. I would make it for about 6pm or 6:30pm.

Jeremy

7/19/2015 12:36:35 pm

We would turn the parents night, into a group potluck. That way the families could bring the family, and a favorite dish, which would allow them to share their culture with others. We would also make sure that we promote it well in advance so that parents can put it on their schedules.

teraza

7/24/2015 06:41:06 am

yvonne

7/25/2015 02:52:07 am

I would put a newsletter up as parents are walking in the facility, then send a flyer home a couple weeks in advance. Have babysitting available for those that are in need of care, have activities out for the kids, and parents, with some snacks and refreshments.

Saida Cortes

7/25/2015 12:23:34 pm

It will be important for their to be a two-way communication to see when is the best time for the most parents to be able to attend Parent's Night. Then it is important to schedule the event far enough in advance so that parents can plan ahead. Finally, having care for the children at the event will make it less stressful for the parents so they do not need to worry about a babysitter.

Victoria

7/26/2015 05:12:33 am

Provide child care during the event. Be sure to plan and invite parents well in advanced (through emails, newsletters, flyers, etc.). Try to pick a date or time that works best around the schedule of the parents (are they 9-5ers, or other shifts?) You can never go wrong with some free food.

Taylor thames

8/2/2015 10:30:54 am

Just let the parents know that it doesn't happen very often so they should take advantage while they can to hang out together

karlee

8/2/2015 11:35:54 am

I personally would talk to each on of the parents during pick up or drop off time, and make a check list so I would know who I have and have not talked about "parents night" with.

Sherry

8/7/2015 12:41:45 am

I would sent home a newsletter saying that there was going to be a parents night. I would include a list of days and times and they could vote on what works best for them. Then I would count the votes and pick the day and time that most of the parents could be there.

Juliana Davis-Marxer

8/12/2015 04:06:24 am

When we have held parent nights we have always included our children in the planning and executing. We send home flyers and talk with all parents and guardians when they pick their children up at night. Getting the children excited about having their parents come to their childcare programs is one of the best ways to get parents involved. We also partner with the elementary schools in the area which is helpful because most parents are involved with their children's school lives so they are also able to easily find out what's going on with the childcare programs. Making sure to use every form of communication toward parents is another method we use to notify families of upcoming events. Email, phone, newsletter and word of mouth are our usual practices.

Elise

8/21/2015 04:57:56 am

Something I think that would result in a high turnout is providing a meal. At the end of the day parents are probably tired from work. By providing a meal it would relieve some stress from parents making it more likely they would attend. Also I would try to plan a parent night more toward the end of the week (maybe Thursday), often some of the busiest work days are in the beginning or middle of the week.

Elena

8/23/2015 08:59:57 am

Definitely provide food and childcare. Give a certain timeframe and make sure you stick to the schedule. Have your own things you want to discuss as part of the agenda and ask parents before hand what they would like to be included in the agenda. Give a space to make sure their voice is being heard.

Kimberly

8/23/2015 01:27:18 pm

give pamphlets to each parent as they pick up their child for the meeting.

Mandy

8/25/2015 01:00:18 pm

Being a parent my self I would try to schedule the meeting a month I advance by email postings postings where they can see it when dropping off. Maybe offer movie for those parents who need care during meeting. For kids to watch. You could also have kids involved

Alicia Dickson

8/25/2015 01:01:20 pm

I love the Open House/Parent Night idea, I think it would be ideal to make sure there was two way communication. Make sure the parents know what is on the agenda. Definitely offer child care for families that have younger ones or just make it clear the more the merrier. Also just stress that this is to help inform the parents of what we are doing and teaching the kids, make sure the kids have the night and can show it all of to their parents. It's a great idea for parents to meet all staff!

Madison

9/5/2015 07:51:37 pm

When we have Open House events at our site, we try to do the following

1. Give plenty of time for notice (a month or more of advance)
2. Send home plenty of newsletters, and contact them via email.
3. Insure the parent that open house events are appropriate for all age(even for parents with infants, at our site we show a family movie when we have open house.)
4. Get the kids pumped so they want to bring the family!

Anamaria

12/15/2015 09:35:55 am

I agree and recommend that every schools or child care programs should do this so that parents can have time to let there jobs know that they need to change their schedules to attend or to find a babysitter.

maricella link

9/7/2015 02:23:20 pm

I would start communication in the beginning of the year with a list of important dates and set reminders by the sign in and out chart. posting on bulletin boards and doors where its more visual will be a friendly reminder. In students files is also a way to communicate with letters for parents.

Claudia Martinez

9/7/2015 08:54:14 pm

I think it is important to provide childcare for them, ask them ahead of time what they want to learn, provide food and drinks. It is important to have a good relationship with the parents or at least have good communication.

Zachary Scott

9/11/2015 03:54:44 pm

I would try to find out parents' schedules and then plan a day that I could get the most people there. Also I would offer free childcare.

Leah L'Rae Wonders

9/14/2015 09:50:10 pm

I would put a newsletter up where the sign in and out sheet is for parents as well as tell them in person the facility's goal for a parents night. I'd talk with my facility and ask them if having a "kids night" would be okay to correlate it with the parent's night so it provides worry-free care for the children to have fun and participate in activities together while the parents have their time and get to know each other and the programs we offer, etc.

Emily

9/19/2015 08:36:54 pm

Providing free food would definitely be a way to attract people to an event. I would want to make sure that the environment is as inviting as possible. Perhaps provide free childcare for the evening, or have activities planned--anything to make parents feel like they're coming because they want to, not because they have to (which technically they don't).

Michael Eng

9/21/2015 01:41:15 pm

Give them ample time that the event is coming. Try to find a day/time that works in their schedule. Communicate through several forms. Let them know what can be expected when they attend. Give incentive.

Elizabeth T Mason

9/23/2015 01:45:47 pm

on weekends and after hours working schedule

Olivia Margoshes

9/23/2015 08:11:43 pm

I think that a parent's main concerns with attending the Parents' Night, aside from their busy work schedules, would be making sure they and their children are fed and that their children are being taken care of in their absence. The center could provide a light meal and offer childcare, set up in a separate area from the parents, for the duration of the meeting.

Robert Lee

9/23/2015 09:06:03 pm

I would provide parents with ample notice so that they can avoid making plans for that day. I would also remind them when they come to pick up their kid. I could also provide a childcare service.

Andre Graham

9/24/2015 11:34:52 pm

I feel the best way to get parents or anyone to show up to an event is to utilize a variety of methods to get the word out. I would put a flyer for my event in the sign-in/sign-out forms for parents at least a month from the event. I would also advertise the event in the club on the walls and doors where parents frequent. During huddles with the youth I would remind them daily to talk to their parents regarding parents night to keep it fresh in the youths head as well as the parents.

Dillon Kramer

9/29/2015 06:19:22 pm

start sending out flyers, write on your parent board if you have one, have conversations with the children and parents about the event. Plan ahead of time and try to make sure everyone is informed and provide a small meal or finger food/snacks for the event and fun activities that both parents and their kids will enjoy together.

Ashleigh

10/1/2015 12:51:32 pm

I would offer a refreshment table with maybe some cookies and juices, as well as an area for free childcare during the parent night so the parents don't have to stress about keeping their kid under control during the meeting or finding a babysitter for the night.

Katie Cook

10/6/2015 12:31:30 pm

Let the parents know a month in advance about the Parent's Night. Let them know that we will provide child care for all ages. Give the parents the time and date on a newsletter with other events going on in that month too.

Amanda

10/15/2015 12:20:44 pm

To get a good turnout for the event, I would plan a month ahead of time. I would then talk to each parents in person to provide details of the event and ask them all what days of the week will work out best. I would then decide on the day that would work best for all the parents and provide them with information of the day so they can leave work earlier. I would have the children also help with the planning so they can discuss with their parents about their important role of the event. I would send out a reminder a week before so parents don't forget about the event, as well as reminding them the day before.

Robyn

10/16/2015 03:57:56 pm

I would first survey the parents as to what night would be best and the majority would win. I would serve food and I would allow them to bring their entire family. I would make this a monthly affair to socialize, allow families to get to know one another and for our staff to get to know the family's.

anitha

10/16/2015 08:11:31 pm

At my center, we would inform the parents about PARENTS NIGHT couple weeks in advance and then remind them through e-mail and flyers etc.We would provide free childcare at that time so the parents didn't have to worry about their kids.We would also give snacks and engage them with the activities.

Meghan

10/19/2015 10:51:08 am

This is where two way communication is key. You need to set a date a month or even two months in advance, make sure it is in newsletters, emails, etc as reminders, PLUS tell parents about it as they come in and out of the room. Think of it as the same as inviting a best friend to an event-you really want them to be there so sell it, convince them, make them feel like they will be welcomed and comfortable if they came. Also tell the kids about the event so they can also be on the 'convincing side' when at home and talking to parent about it!

maranda morton

10/19/2015 03:16:41 pm

Some ways to get good attendance at a parents night out are to plan far enough into the future so plans can be made, have free child care at the event, and maybe schedule it right after pick up time so the parents are already there.

Maria Loredo

10/24/2015 10:35:07 pm

Plan a month ahead for parents night. Start telling parents about the event weeks in advance. Send out flyers. Remind parents when they come to pick up their child about parents night. Showing parents how much you care not only about the event but their presence at parents night out because if you don't care why would they care to come to the event and get involved?

Rachel Berry

10/25/2015 09:52:01 am

You can try to use all forms of communication. With one-way communication, you can send home reminder notes about the event. And send home newsletters about the event in the family's home language. For two-way communication, you can make sure you have time to stay and chat with parents once children are released. A sign up sheet would also help because it would allow you to know who may have not gotten notice about the event.

Amanda Phillips

11/3/2015 01:23:58 pm

Sending a letter home with the parents is a good way for them to have a reminder about the event. Another thing to try is to put a sign up sheet on the front of the sign in/sign out binder. So that when the parents get to the center each morning and night, that's the first thing they will see every day as long as you put it up ahead of time.

Lorena Martinez Soto

11/13/2015 09:58:40 am

Are center usually puts a sign up sheet right next to our sign in/sign out binder that way when they come in it will be the first thing they will see and they will be aware of what is goin on and even ask questions about it.
Another thing we do with our very busy parents is send an email and some times talk to them when they come and pick up their kids.
We also try to encourage are parent to participate in our events and we always welcome their little ones to come with.

Natalie Rapp

11/15/2015 12:40:20 pm

To ensure that parents attend a 'Parents Night', I would make sure that I announced the date far enough in advance that it would give the parents an opportunity to set aside some time. I would also send home letters and email reminders to the parents. During the meeting time, I would have someone taking notes, so if a parent was unable to attend, I could set aside a special time for them and go over the main conversation topics that were discussed.

Benjamin

11/17/2015 11:57:29 am

-Provide as much advance notice as possible
-Provide child care, as well as a small meal or snacks
-Encourage children to bring their parents along, by having part of parent night be a presentation or other demonstration of something the children have done.

Kayla

11/19/2015 02:15:50 pm

giving parents a decent amount of advance notice is a big help. they have a lot going on, kids, jobs, extra caricular activites, meetings etc. they are prone to forgetting and not being able to fit it in their schedule. telling them way ahead of time and constsntly reminding them is extreamly helpful.
offer some refreshemtns or even a meal if its able to be done will help as well for time management for families in the evening.

Samantha

11/21/2015 12:27:18 pm

Putting a poll of possible dates and times for Parents' Night near the sign in sheets would help pinpoint the best time to accommodate the most parents. Advertising a meal and childcare would help in a family's nightly routine and alleviate stress.

Deana

11/22/2015 01:47:43 am

Definitely giving a lot of notice so parents have a chance to arrange work schedules. At least 2 weeks - one month would be ideal. Having a potluck encouraging families to bring a dish from their home country would be fun. And bake homemade cookies!

McKenzie Conner

11/23/2015 07:09:14 pm

It is important to be organized ahead of time. Giving ample notice to parents with busy schedules is key. And constant reminders and postings will help turnout numbers. Also informing the parents about the event, including details, will entice them to join

Dylan

11/29/2015 01:54:46 pm

When each parent comes in to sign the child out. I would notify the parent as they are walking in and hand them a paper with the information on it.

Kiara McCallum

11/30/2015 12:56:19 pm

We would call in more staff to come to the event like substitutes. We would offer babysitting as the event takes place and dinner as well so parents don't have to rush. We would place this event after 6pm since that's about the time all parents are off or getting off.

Breaunah Jacobs

12/6/2015 04:30:01 pm

A few ways to ensure a good turnout at Parent Night:
-provide childcare during the event so that parents don't have to plan for it
-provide light refreshments/snacks or even dinner so that parents don't feel rushed to leave
-post it near sign in and out sheets so parents see it during the days before the event. also a verbal reminder is helpful as well.

Mary Squiers

12/7/2015 01:40:08 pm

It can be rather challenging to get parents to take the time to attend Parent Nights. To ensure the best possible turnout, time is of the essence. It is important to give them ample notice in many different formats. Post flyers in visible areas, send home flyers with kids, send emails, and post the information on your website. Providing childcare and a light snack would also increase the number of attendees.

Patricia

12/7/2015 03:53:19 pm

Keep it simple... Give lots of notice, provide childcare, refreshments

Audrey Heeren

12/10/2015 08:31:43 am

Keep it simple and short. Provide food. Have a performance by the children.

Desiree Price

12/12/2015 01:40:03 pm

I would offer free childcare at the center (assuming the meeting is there), and have food for adults and the children. I would provide lots of notice by sending home newsletters translated into multiple langues for their convenience, and have brief reminders maybe every other day (so they don't feel like I'm hounding them) about the Parent's Night..

Rachel Davenport

12/12/2015 01:54:14 pm

I would give advance notice of the event, remind parents and invite them face to face. I would provide childcare and make it a free event.

Gisella Santiago-Gronka

12/15/2015 11:21:39 am

I’d try to do the following for a good turnout:
1. Plan the event in advanced and give families plenty of notice. I think 2 months in advance should be perfect. I’d also plan the event in the evening from 6:30pm-7:30pm later in the week like a Thursday or Friday.
2. Send home newsletters as a gentle reminder, contact families via email as the date gets closer and verbal reminders at pick up the week before and the week of the event.
3. Offer free childcare as well as snack or a small meal with refreshments.
4. Plan activities for the kids as well as the adults so the children are excited to come and parents have an opportunity to interact with other parents/families.

Estefania

12/16/2015 08:33:10 pm

I would make it a free event with some food and games. I would let the parents know with a good amount of time, and allow childcare to be available

Emely

12/17/2015 09:15:08 pm

Sometimes when babysitting is offered parents come. most of the time they have no one to babysit so they dont attend meetings. Also offering a snack and making the event sound fun can encourage them to come as well.

Stacy

12/19/2015 02:19:34 pm

Give your parents a lot of notice of the event, provided childcare, provide a simple meal or snack. Make it enjoyable, you want them to come back.

Amber Fitzgerald

12/26/2015 09:52:30 am

I think it would be really important to set the date a couple months in advance so parents have plenty of time to make arrangements to go. Keep advertising to all the families. Make posters, send notes home, talk to the parents when they drop off and pick up. Also, getting the kids involved in the planning would be great. Have them help with snacks and plan games and activities to do with their parents. If the kids are excited the parents will more likely be involved.

Rebecca Pedersen

12/27/2015 07:54:28 pm

At our school we have an idea of each parents schedule so when organizing events we'd use a time that seemed to fit most parents' schedule. Many times when organizing a type of party we have parents volunteer to do specific things such as, face painting, an art work, food, ext. Many parents do try to be involved in the school and a positive influence in their kids life.

Katrina

12/29/2015 08:37:31 am

Schedule the event for a time in the evening when most parents are off work and are typically able to pick up their children. Provide childcare so parents can bring their school-age and/or younger children while they are able to participate in the Parent Night.

James Over

12/30/2015 08:18:41 pm

Keeping the parents night short, to an hour at the maximum would be a great start. Letting parents know of the meeting on several occasions, i.e. in person, over email, beforehand will help as well. Providing dinner for kids and parents would prompt those who would otherwise skip out for a family meal together.

Cecilia

12/31/2015 01:24:24 pm

Our director often conducts a poll early in the year about families' available after-hours meeting times, to better assess when parents' night should start. We also provide childcare for children, including childcare for younger siblings who are not yet part of our program. We also notify families about the specifics of the event ahead of time and give them plenty of notice to allow for greater attendance.

Laura

12/31/2015 08:37:15 pm

Schedule the event for parents on a Friday evening when they may have fewer work and home demands. Provide a family dinner and activities for the children while their parents are meeting.

shelby kesterke

1/1/2016 06:16:19 pm

If I knew it was going to be difficult for parents to attend I would ask what the reason was behind not being able to come. Then if it was due to not having any one to watch their children I would incorporate activities that parents could do with their children so they could bring them along. If the reason was due to the time of the event I would try and have times that would work for a majority of the parents so that they would be able to attend the event.

Andrea

1/3/2016 06:23:56 pm

provide childcare and a dinner meal after hours for the event that is taking place to encourage the parents to come and know that there will be helpful hands available for them to be able to sit and have communication with the staff.

Lindsay Lyon

1/3/2016 07:26:05 pm

I would definitely look into a childcare option for this event. As a parent, I know that it is not always easy to find care for my kids, and if there is something I really would like to attend, it is an added bonus to have care provided. Also, having a dinner during the event would likely draw an extra crowd.

Justyna Galaz

1/15/2016 10:52:17 am

A good way would to inform the parents of this idea a month or two ahead. Than talk to all the parents and ask them what their availability is like. And than plan from there!

david

1/18/2016 05:32:06 pm

Have a seperate section for kids to play so parents can freely mingle without having responsibility of there kids.

Micaela Carroll

1/21/2016 04:14:06 pm

I would offer three different time choices and have parents fill out which time works best, and then pick the time that the majority of parents picked to hold the parents night at. Then, I would send letters out two weeks before, tell parents on drop off and pick up, and remind parents. I would also ask for RSVP's to get an idea of how many will attend, and then check back 1-2 days before the parents night is being held. We could also do door prizes and have snacks and drinks for motivation to stay after a long work day!

Sybil

1/22/2016 11:16:15 am

Give plenty of heads-up, connect with them through more than one source: email as well as flyer at sign out. Keep communication open, encourage them to attend in person. Offer childcare in another space, and even an activity for parents and children to do together or in teams with other pairs!

Elizabeth Salyers

1/23/2016 11:53:36 am

I would advertise it in advance and hold it on an evening where the parents can come after work and stay a while when they come to pick up their children. I would provide snacks and drinks.

jennifer massengale

1/24/2016 09:26:45 am

I would send notices out early then follow up with reminders and do a special project for the children to do so that on parent night the parents are more likely to come to see what their child has made for them also have snacks and coffee

James

1/25/2016 07:31:51 am

I would promote the "Parent's Night" event about a month in advance and allow them to have that time to plan their schedule out so they can make the time to come. Give them information for what the Parent's Night will contain of so they can look forward to it. Also advice that if they have other children they are more then welcome to join us as well. Also just keep encouraging them as often as possible (Limited but just enough)

cynthia smith

1/25/2016 02:11:48 pm

I would promote the "Parent's Night" by first telling all the families about the date and time of the event in a newsletter. Then I would follow up with a note sent home with the kids every week and an email to remind the families of the coming event. I would leave my contact number(s) so they could schedule a time for us to have a visit before the event (if possible).

Gabriel A

1/25/2016 07:00:01 pm

Alert the parents in advance by a few weeks so that they know the event is happening. Have activities that apply to both kids and adults so that everyone is engaged. Also you could offer a childcare service so that parents could relax ad have fun.

Annika

1/27/2016 11:07:51 am

Giving a few weeks head's up is helpful because then the parents can hopefully plan accordingly, encouraging the kids to remind their parents, and then reminding the parents everyday the week of. I also like the idea of planning activities that both parents and kids can enjoy so we can all be engaged together.

Carly

1/30/2016 02:41:56 pm

Informing parents about important events well in advance and making sure to give reminders as the date gets closer. Sending children home with newsletters and communicating with parents in person would help there be a better turn out. Providing games and food and things to keep children busy would draw a bigger crowd and please everyone.

Molly B

1/31/2016 04:39:53 pm

I would set the date for parents night several weeks in advance, and i would make it a free event for them. i would in my news letter talk about how good it is to have these events for the child.

Kay

2/2/2016 12:16:36 pm

I would lean towards an open house night- longer hours that will accommodate more families. Snacks and 'children welcome' are always good motivators as well.

Sara

2/3/2016 10:46:34 am

In would personally let parents know weeks in advance about Parents Night so that way they could possibly get off work early. But I would keep it interesting by asking other teachers to get involved with parents night and that way we could have each class room that is participating, have some kind of child and parent activity.

Andrea Myers link

2/5/2016 02:04:21 pm

Communicating with the parents ahead of time will help attendance. Also providing child care for them will help raise attendance.

Michael Chapman

2/5/2016 09:02:48 pm

I would give the parents at least 2 weeks notice before the event and I would also have the event held 2 times once at an earlier time then the other.

Sarah Still

2/6/2016 03:22:00 pm

I would create a flyer or newsletter stating the basics of the event a few weeks beforehand. As the event gets closer I would mention it to the parents so that they will remember and maybe provide child care during those events as well.

Alissa Wallace

2/7/2016 01:36:34 pm

Most importantly, I would notify parents a few months in advance. Following that, i would leave reminders and posters throughout our classroom and our parents table to remind parents of the upcoming event. Also, it is important to some families that children of all ages be welcomed at the event, allowing them to come as a family and get to know kids in their neighborhood. Additionally, i would provide snacks and games. This gives kids a chance to play and have fun while their parents learn more about the program. After everyone has worked up an appetite, there would be snacks to help settle those hunger pains.

Kimme Johnson

2/7/2016 06:08:03 pm

To ensure a good parent turn out make sure that knowledge of the event is very advanced. Parents should be informed well in advance, and newsletters and reminders should be sent home and advertised a lot. Food should also be provided for an added bonus for a busy parent to be provided with a free meal for them and their family, cutting out the responsibility of providing dinner for their family.

Holly

2/7/2016 10:47:46 pm

At a school with uniforms, offer a free dress pass to the students. Connect it with other events such as a Celebration of Learning in which student work is being exhibited in the classrooms. It is always good to provide child care for younger children and food for families so they don't have to juggle other commitments to fulfill the commitment of participating in their child's school experience.

Rachel

2/12/2016 11:49:06 am

I would sent flyers for parents the event for few weeks. As it gets closer I will sent out the reminder for the event.

PRIYANKA KUMARI

2/13/2016 11:23:03 am

First I would try to confirm a date with everyone. Providing a list of possible dates and a poll link to get the majority of people's presence. Then, on the event I will invite local vendors, activities, a cheap childcare and freebies to make it successful. At last , I will add one on-stage performances for kids so that parents as well as kids would be excited about it.

Kammi

2/15/2016 07:55:24 pm

In planning a parent's night I would first send out a survey "which night works best for you". Additionally offering childcare would be helpful to lots of parents.

Brandi

2/18/2016 01:03:28 pm

Make sure it is posted or told to them with enough notice. Or you could offer childcare. Plan a dinner so that the parents can eat. Makes it more relaxed and inviting.

Katharina Gees

2/22/2016 11:31:41 am

In order to encourage a good turn out I will first email out a questionnaire to all of the parents about what times work best for them. I think that the parents involvement in setting up a time for the event will result in higher amounts of attendance because they feel included and have already checked their calendar. I will set up the date and time 3-4 weeks ahead of time and send weekly reminders when the date is set. I will also give flyers to the children so that they can too remind their parents.

Henry Moen

2/23/2016 08:25:31 pm

So what I would do is offer childcare during the event, plan it multiple weeks in advance, and there would be events during the meeting, like dinner and maybe a silent auction. I would also try and get the kids to want to go to the childcare so they could pester their parents about the event too.

Marc

2/27/2016 08:10:16 am

Plan it way ahead of time. Offer childcare during the parent night. Provide details like writing it down on a poster or a message board or a flyer to take home.

Nohelani Quigtar

2/28/2016 10:40:02 pm

Getting parents to come to an after-hour event is challenging but the best way to get parents to attend is to plan ahead of time and make it known that something is happening. Give them a newsletter or post messages visible for the parents to see and talk to them about the event.

Morgan M.

2/28/2016 11:44:34 pm

having advance planning for the event would help enormously. so posting about the event a couple of weeks in advance and then doing a sign up sheet so they sign up, along with having childcare available. Also including dinner and an event to get parents involved could all e things to increase turn out.

Stephanie

2/29/2016 02:09:42 pm

We try to plan the event with enough advanced warning that parents can plan for it in their schedules. We also contact parents through a variety of means to ensure that they are aware of the event such as phone calls, fliers, emails, and in person at pick-up and drop off. We've also found that offering a meal allows for the family to engage as a unit as well as participate in the planned activities.

Andrew

3/2/2016 05:18:04 pm

Probably a two-way method would be best. Google docs is an effective way, or maybe email. There are probably some general times and days that work for most parents. It may be important to avoid putting any pressure on parents to attend, or if the meeting is especially important you could do it at two different time, unless the collaboration of all parents is essential.

Tabitha

3/3/2016 03:59:13 pm

In our area if plan to have a "parents night" we usually offer food or door prizes. We also try to accommodate to peoples schedule, make the date and time reasonable.

Katie

3/8/2016 11:54:02 am

Give the parents plenty of notice so they can plan ahead. Make a sign and post it where they will see it. Talk to them about it when they pick up their kids. Send them an email a few weeks prior and then a courtesy reminder email closer to the date of the event. Have child care available for the duration of the event.

Mariah

3/8/2016 08:50:23 pm

The best thing to do is to give parents a month in advance and plan the parents night at a reasonable time (like 5:30pm on a Friday. Most parents are off by this time and most parents do not work as late on Fridays). Also, send home reminders weekly. Have the children plan activities and brainstorm food ideas for the parents night. This will get the children involved and they will urge their parent(s) to come.

Nathan Johnson

3/10/2016 12:31:31 pm

Time the meeting after your site would normally be closed, that way you know all parents would be able to attend normally, provide childcare, and a small dinner or something. That way it becomes an incentive for the parents to come because they wont have to make dinner.

Mischelle Johnson

3/12/2016 11:32:37 am

Promote Parents Night on social media, through emails, and posted in the front info center upon walk in about a month in advance. Plan for a time that works well with your families schedule and a reasonable time as well. The more reminders they have in multiple reminder sets, the more likely it is they will put it in their calendar- and bring food!

Nicole Littleton

3/12/2016 08:11:30 pm

Depending on my program's budget, I would provide free childcare so that parents would not have to stress about what to do with their children. Furthermore, I would offer free food to both the parents and children so that they would not have to worry about dinner.

Audrey MEZIL

3/15/2016 02:09:10 pm

I would have the event be a couple weeks ahead so the parents will have time to plan,

I will provide childcare for the event with enought adults to take care and make some fun activities with the kids. I will accept sibling too. So parents could have all their attention focus on the event.

I will make the event after work hours but not too late too (so I think around 6:30 pm is the best).

I will provide a consistant snack for parents and children

Melissa

3/16/2016 08:17:53 am

I would provide enough time that parents could plan ahead to make the time work. I would talk to the students about the event so they can remind their parents, as well as providing parents with reminders when the time gets closer. I would also provide food so that the parents have more time to focus on making it to the event instead of focusing on what the family will be eating for that meal.

Jaclyn Tabone

3/18/2016 11:42:21 am

I would plan the event a couple weeks ahead, ask parents when they would be able to attend so they do not have to take off work, I would remind the family and have a way so they could bring all their kids or have them taken care of during the meeting

Brianna

3/19/2016 03:47:46 pm

Several weeks in advance I would make some flyers to put near the sign in/out table. I would also talk to the parents at pick up/ drop off and let them know about the activities going on that night. I would advertise babysitting and snacks for all! Lastly, I would announce it to the kids, a week or two before the event, encouraging them to tell their parents about the night.

Brittany Nielsen

3/21/2016 12:35:12 pm

Definitely give the parents notice ahead of time (about a month or more) and periodically provide forms of notices like flyers, handouts to send home with the children, and emails just as little reminders that the event is coming up. It's also easier for busy parents if a meal is provided like a buffet style dinner if the event is on a week night or a breakfast or lunch if it's on a weekend. Childcare should also be provided for siblings and infants during the event.

Aimee

3/22/2016 12:04:00 pm

I would try to plan a couple of different nights to make sure it is easier for parents to fit it in the schedule. I would try to schedule them about 2 months in advance so they can plan for it with friendly reminders as the date gets closer. I would make sure to schedule it around 6:30 or 7. If there is free childcare parents would be more likely to come. i would also offer a light meal because it might interfere with people's dinner

Linda Mae Kristofik

3/22/2016 02:14:23 pm

I would establish a Bimonthly Parent night and have it be in a Newsletter, word of mouth, reminders as the date nears.
I would provide snacks and, if possible, day care for the students and siblings so the parents can attend. I would also set topics to cover and allow time for questions or other topics

RAFFAELA GENZALE

4/6/2016 06:39:23 pm

Give the parents plenty of time to plan for the event. Let them know what the event is about and ask for some suggestions that they might think would work to help this event move smoothly. Providing child care is a plus!

Katrina

4/12/2016 09:05:58 am

I like to create a special keepsake to show the parents. This year it is a Memory book that I showcase on the night. We've worked on it all year and I start getting the kids excited about the 'unveiling' before the scheduled meetings so they 'encourage' their parents to come in. I also believe student led conferences are very instrumental in getting parents involved.

Nayelika link

4/13/2016 05:44:46 pm

Offer free babysitting for their children if parents could come. This way parents wouldn't have to stress about getting a babysitter so they could come to an event after hours.

Jeannette Williams

4/14/2016 10:12:05 am

telling them I'm here for free babysitting , or giving them lots of time to find the time

Gabrielle

4/20/2016 03:23:28 pm

I post signs in advance or newsletters , I also notify the parents in advance so they they can try and get the time from work to be there.

Anne Standing

4/27/2016 12:07:00 pm

I would definitely give a lot of notice either by email, phone calls and in person, followed by a reminder. A little bit of food seems to be a great way to attract parents to these events.

Daniel

4/29/2016 01:29:08 pm

I believe that providing lots of information months in advance will help the parents be prepared and prepare themselves for the event. But I believe the most effective way is to connect the event to the parent's deep convictions of providing the best for their kids. If they thought that the event would greatly better the lives of their children the parents wouldn't miss it for the world.

Drew

4/30/2016 11:18:46 am

I would send a flyer home a couple weeks in advance about the event and have babysitting available for those that need it. I would also have a newsletter somewhere near the sign in sheet to use as a reminder for the parents advertising the event.

Emily DuBois

5/3/2016 10:22:32 am

Picking a time possibly after most parents work would be best, possibly providing a snack to tide the children over.
Getting the meeting out by letting each parent know when they drop their children off, and leaving sheets right at pick up, most likely in a bright color to attract the parents eyes.

Kristina

5/5/2016 09:16:46 am

Plan ahead of time send out flyer with date and time, plan something fun with door prizes.

Kari link

5/5/2016 01:46:47 pm

Make it attractive for the whole family. Have games or activities planned, snack if able. Maybe flyers, and reminders.

Myell Mergaert

5/20/2016 10:29:01 pm

Well I would plan and promote the event at least a month in advance, do phone outreach to answer any questions, then follow up two days before the event. I also would make sure the even occurs during the usual pick up time at the end of the day. This allows for parents to attend before they pick up their children.

Christopher Williams

5/30/2016 01:17:21 pm

We recently held an art show, show casing the children's art. This encouraged the children to go home and motivate their parents to come. A lot of parents showed up!

Katheryn Leyde

6/1/2016 12:39:36 pm

Provide snacks or a light meal, also provide babysitting!

Maddi

6/6/2016 07:26:13 pm

To get a good turnout, start advertising for the event far enough ahead of time so that parents will be able to plan ahead of time. Send home fliers with students, send out emails, and even provide "babysitting" services so that parents will be able to have a place for their children to go as well. Make sure that the event is at a time that most families will be able to attend as well.

Leticia Gutierrez

6/9/2016 06:47:33 am

1. Give plenty of time for notice (a month or more of advance)
2. Send home plenty of newsletters, and contact them via emailProvide snacks or a light meal, also provide babysitting!

Christina Huskey

6/9/2016 01:45:03 pm

make sure to communicate with the parents of the children. put up fliers so that the parents can see them around the town you live in. you can also make sure to tell the parents as they are picking up and dropping off their children. another way to communicate is to have monthly reports what is going on for that month. the more you communicate with parents the better attendance you will get with people.

Sashia Ramirez-Trujillo

6/13/2016 10:20:20 am

I will send emails and create fun and attractive flyers to catch the attention of the parents.
I will call and encourage the parents.
I will remind the parents about the event when they are dropping in/out their kids.

Katie

6/14/2016 06:22:13 pm

It's important to let parents know about after hours activities as far in advance as possible. Offering child care, family activities, and food will also help parent turn out.

Manroop Buttar

6/14/2016 09:04:21 pm

provide early notice of an event, provide babysitting, provide food or snacks

Vensie Williams

6/20/2016 07:22:23 pm

I would start with one way communication like e-mails and news letters and then two way communications like having conversations during pick up and drop off times. I would also make sure to give the parents plenty of notice ahead of time.

Mia Naficy

6/22/2016 05:40:40 am

Two-way communication is important in assessing parents' schedules to determine what a good place and time would be. Once it is set, an email or two, maybe a flyer sent home, and casual mentions at drop off and pick up can be useful. Providing childcare accomodations during the event can be hugely enticing to families. Also some type of food, drink, or other incentive can make the prospect of taking valuable evening time away from the home and placing it with your organization more palatable.

Manolita

6/24/2016 06:40:26 pm

First of all, the school I am in is a private school. A large percentage are working parents but they are strongly interested in their children's education. The following are practiced: 1) one month notice of "Parent Night" issued to parents through email, letter, and announcement on the board at the entrance of the school; 2) oral reminder a week before the day and on the day, asking point-blank if they can come or not. These were effective for the past nine years. What I would like to add this year is an open-ended note about what parents' specific goal/concern that will be addressed during the "Parent Night" under the item bridging the gap (meaning the school's goal and parent's goal).

Carly Froneberger

7/2/2016 02:49:56 pm

If my center was going to host a "parents night" and they wanted to have a good turn out I would make sure to plan the event way in advance and take a vote via email or sign up sheet on a few different dates and see which one(s) work best for parents. Once getting that information I would create the event on one or two different nights to ensure the turn out to be good. I would also schedule at least a two hour block for the parent night from 4-6 pm.

Olivia Castillo

7/5/2016 06:14:18 pm

First, I would have a flyer go out the week before to remind parents to keep that night free. Next i would offer a babysitting activity while the parents are attending the parents night. I would supply a light snack for the parents to enjoy during the event. Lastly, I would assure them that the meeting would be a certain reasonable length.

Emily Enright

7/12/2016 09:45:48 pm

A good way to promote a good turn out is to give early notice and consistent reminders before the event. Let parents know what kind of activities will be available at the event, provide babysitting and snacks so the parents don't have to worry about feeding and watching their children while they are trying to engage in the activities, and help parents to meet other parents along with teachers and staff so that there is a strong sense of community. Instead of them seeing the event as something they "have to do" it can be something they want to do, as it will be a chance for social interaction and fun.

Jeremy Tagliaferre

7/14/2016 10:25:23 am

There are a few things that need to happen. One is advertising. This includes emails, letters home and in person conversations. The second thing is the event itself, there should be things for kids to do while there so that parents are not just walking them around and having conversations with adults while the child is bored. And food! People love food and having an event in the evening around dinner time is hard for families. Making the event easy to attend is important and will really make the advertising of it easy.

Judith

7/25/2016 01:34:34 pm

What I would do is send a new letter out at least three weeks prior to the event. That way parents can take time off and are also being notified when the event will be. Also sending out emails as well. That way they know that they are welcomed to the event. When the time comes of the event, not just things for the adults but also have a few activities for kids to do. Also providing food for the event. Parents can come hungry if they just got off work and nothing to eat.

Anne Pyle

8/13/2016 10:29:14 pm

To encourage as many parents to attend the family night, let them know weeks in advance so that they can plan on going. Schedule it for a time that is normally after hours of the scheduled childcare time because they are obviously already busy with work. Also give out a flier with the time and date. Then, remind them of the event the week before. Make it kid friendly, have something for the children to with the associates while the parents meet with the director. It would also be a good idea to provide food for the families to snack on.

Margaret

8/23/2016 01:50:26 pm

Advertise the event long in advance, pass out flyers and remind the parents. Have the parents RSVP with email or telephone reminders. Provide food and childcare. Have the same event on two different days. Host it at an easily accessible building or area.

Konstantin Yatsuk

8/27/2016 02:45:36 pm

To increase turnout make sure there is free food, plan the event at least three months in advance, and advertise it in newsletters or emails, and make sure there is something that the kids can do so that parents don't have to leave kids alone at home, hire a babysitter, or whatnot. Usually that would look like the parents are in one place with some of the teachers, while the kids are playing nearby, such as in a playroom, with some of the other teachers.

Miesha

8/28/2016 11:46:21 am

i would give parents notice of the parents night out at least a month in advance so that if they need time to adjust their schedules they can. Then i would have a sign up sheet for the event that they sign saying that they are coming, I think that this would make more of a turn because the parents are less likely to not show up if its something they signed saying they would come and committed to.

Alexander

8/28/2016 09:42:39 pm

Try and make a face to face connection with the parents, and try to get commitments from them at least a few days before the event. If at all possible, schedule your event around the schedule of your parents... Try and find the day on which most of your parents will be free. Maintain email correspondence with your parents, as this helps to to establish a community of support.

Kate Taylor

9/5/2016 09:11:58 am

Completely agree with all of this. I think it's so important to stress how this will benefit their children.

Angela Brun

8/30/2016 02:30:27 pm

Well of course, free food! Also, giving plenty of notice and create the event so that the children are welcome too. Make it about the children. Either a concert or science fair. Make it so that the parents are able to bring their children and see what they have done at school or at an after school program. Be able to have the kids show their parents around and present what they have done or created over a period of time.

Katarina Allen

9/4/2016 08:39:44 am

A lot of parents worry about having to also provide dinner for their children some of which don't go to our care program so I believe I would have food available for the families who attend maybe even try to make it like a potluck night so that when I'm talking with parents the kids can eat and/or play and the parents could focus on what we can do to improve their child's daily life.

Kate Taylor

9/5/2016 09:11:06 am

Stressing the importance of the event to the parents. Allowing the parents to know the date and time WELL in advance and then us as employees reminding and stressing that the parents should attend.

Yarely Edpinoza

9/5/2016 09:28:54 pm

At my program we will have a flyer out a week before also we like to remind parents just in case they didn't read it. When the kids get picked up from the program we remind parents of our up coming events.

McCanna

9/11/2016 01:38:22 pm

I would stress the importance and activities that will be happening on parents night by sending out a news letter to all the families in our program two weeks before the parents night. I would also hang a flyer in the class roome and at the sign in/out sheet have a small reminder flyer that the parents can take. This way the families know in advance and have a reminder, if needed.

Mani Hooyman

9/11/2016 09:19:51 pm

1. Give a couple different dates available and see what gets picked the most
2. Have the event after hours (work hours) so more can attend
3. If kids come, have actives in a different room for them

Lacie

9/11/2016 09:30:45 pm

I would talk with the parents first. Let them know all the details and get there input on good times for them. Also have something going on for the kids at the same time so they don't have to worry about what the kids will be doing at that time.

Alissa Gutierrez

9/13/2016 12:46:38 pm

I would give plenty of notice to the parents- maybe a month in advance. I would chose a day that is most frequently short in the amount of kids. Ex. If Fridays have had the least amount of kids, you can assume that more parents are off to take care of their kids. Have a childcare option available during the event because most of them will probably need it.

Amber

9/13/2016 03:00:07 pm

To ensure a great turnout, I would advertise with plenty of notice and reminders. Offer free babysitting with fun activities and food planned for both children and parents.

Quincy Henry

9/17/2016 12:52:41 pm

It would be beneficial if we offered on site daycare services so parents could bring their children with them. Providing food is always helpful so it eliminates the parents having to make dinner and come to event after working a long day. It might also be fun to play games and offer door prizes that are geared towards adults. These are things that would make attending an event after work much more appealing.

Chloe

9/21/2016 12:39:59 pm

Well, since our center works with the local schools' schedules and we know generally when curriculum nights/concerts/games are put on, we'd make sure to pick a night when there aren't any school events happening. Obviously, if we chose a night that a school was already having their ice cream social on, then many of our families would have to chose which event to go to.
Since we have a weekly email sent to the parents, we'd be sure to send out information about the parent night early on, so parents can mark then calendars. Then, as the night approached, we'd remind parents, either in email or in person during drop-off/pick up.
On top of that, we'd be sure to talk about it with the kids, so that they themselves can mentioned it to their parents. Basically, the idea would be to talk about it, but not necessarily be pushy or annoying.

maleeha choudhry

9/22/2016 01:16:25 am

start communicating better, and make expectations clear, give them some time to adjust.

Sarah

9/25/2016 11:24:49 am

I would make sure to advertise the event far in advance using a few different methods (flyers as well as talking about it in person and maybe a reminder note to send home with the children also) and would offer the option of free babysitting for the night, with activities planned for both the children and the parents.

Kate Sheldon

9/28/2016 07:26:25 pm

Offer different dates and times, make sure to advertise, provide childcare, and serve finger foods as well.

Britt

9/29/2016 06:42:26 pm

In my opinion, I think in order to get a great turnout for events is utilize resources to advertise for the event, have fliers readily available and insert fliers inside each child's sign in/sign out section in the binder, as well as hanging for easy access for parents to see. As well as making the kids excited for the event, have them create projects to able to showcase during the event. Lastly, everyone shows up for free food, so of course offer refreshments.

Krystal Hwang

10/1/2016 09:30:07 pm

Krystal Hwang

10/1/2016 09:30:44 pm

Krystal Hwang

10/1/2016 09:30:54 pm

Krystal Hwang

10/1/2016 09:32:14 pm

I would do an after school event as well. To see how many parents show up and its after work hours so there will be more chances that parents will come to the event. And tell parents a week before or before notice. And maybe have some treats for the parents. Make them feel welcome as well. And the more the parents get involved the kids will be more involved in the program too. And great strategy to find the best help for the child.

Krystal Hwang

10/1/2016 09:32:42 pm

I would do an after school event. To see how many parents show up and its after work hours so there will be more chances that parents will come to the event. And tell parents a week before or before notice. And maybe have some treats for the parents. Make them feel welcome as well. And the more the parents get involved the kids will be more involved in the program too. And great strategy to find the best help for the child.

Krystal Hwang

10/1/2016 09:34:44 pm

I would do an after work hours meeting or parents event, so there will be more chances that parents will come to the event. And tell parents a week before or before notice. And maybe have some treats for the parents. Make them feel welcome as well. And the more the parents get involved the kids will be more involved in the program too. And great strategy to find the best help for the child.

Krystal Hwang

10/1/2016 09:35:21 pm

I would do an after work hours meeting or parents event, and presentation so there will be more chances that parents will come to the event. And tell parents a week before or before notice. And maybe have some treats for the parents. Make them feel welcome as well. And the more the parents get involved the kids will be more involved in the program too. And great strategy to find the best help for the child.

Krystal Hwang

10/1/2016 09:35:54 pm

I would do an event for after work hours meeting or parents event, and presentation so there will be more chances that parents will come to the event. And tell parents a week before or before notice. And maybe have some treats for the parents. Make them feel welcome as well. And the more the parents get involved the kids will be more involved in the program too. And great strategy to find the best help for the child.

Krystal Hwang

10/1/2016 09:36:54 pm

Communication is the key. I would do an event for after work hours meeting or parents event, and presentation so there will be more chances that parents will come to the event. And tell parents a week before or before notice. And maybe have some treats for the parents. Make them feel welcome as well. And the more the parents get involved the kids will be more involved in the program too. And great strategy to find the best help for the child.

Lexi

10/4/2016 09:33:46 am

Providing childcare is an excellent option to offer. Offering childcare gives parents somewhere for their children to go so they can attend the parent's night.

kylee

10/7/2016 01:59:07 pm

fun activities for kids. Provide finger food snacks for parents and kids and make it entertaining and fun.

Kristopher McLendon

10/11/2016 12:20:12 pm

Getting parents to show up at a Parents Night works better if there is communication between the parents and the center. There needs to be a communication of what the expectation is the hopes they can make it.

Alicia

10/12/2016 09:44:46 pm

Trying to do an "Parents Night" would work best later at night. I would try to have it at around 6:30. Also I would try to offer a fun space for their children hang out while parents got to come chat for a little bit. This limits the hassle of trying to find a babysitter for the event. Also letting parents know in advance that there would be an event so they can plan accordingly.

Kiana Wastradowski

10/16/2016 09:36:07 pm

Provide childcare and a dinner (if allowed in the budget) perhaps even a pot luck themed Parents Night and have parents bring food by as well.
Administer a vote for the times that the meeting will happen and choose a time that is most common for all families to attend.
Also administer a vote for topics to discuss at the parents night so the families will discuss what they would like to learn more about.

Jocelyn Ramirez

10/17/2016 10:57:46 am

You can use both one way communication and two way communication. You can use one way communication by sending out emails prior to the parent's night date to let them know ahead of time so they can accommodate their schedules. And you can also use two way communication, when parents pick up their child or children, you can ask them if they have heard about the parent's night and explain a little of what its going to be about and how important it is for their child.

diana

10/17/2016 02:04:53 pm

i would advertise way before the event so they can make room for it and can come. and as the date gets closdr i would send out flyers as well as remind them when they drop off/pick up

Aliyah Martin

10/18/2016 09:47:03 pm

Planning the event around the time where typically the majority of your students parents get off of work. Providing child care with great activities allowing children to engage while parents receive information at the event hosted.

Latifa Franklin

10/26/2016 09:37:16 pm

I would let parents know ahead of time so that everyone has the opportunity to be there and I would also send out the information for the parent night via phone calls and emails.

nicole wilson

10/28/2016 06:28:11 pm

If we were going to do a parents night out we would start with a newsletter and a sign on the sign in and out table. then for the next two weeks leading up to the parents night we would be reminding our students and encouraging them to ask their parents to attend. the last few days before the event remind students as well as their parents.

Laura Murillo

11/12/2016 06:16:01 pm

To ensure a great turn out for "Parent Night" it's best to do the following.
1. Announce the event on all forms of parent teacher communications such as parent boards, newsletters, fliers, and drop-off/pick-up times.
2. Plan it on a date and time of week that works best for most of the parents. Maybe conducting a small survey could help.
3. Have fun and hard to resist incentives for everyone. Family board games, carnival games, prizes, snacks, and refreshments. Make sure it's all ages.
4. Get the kids involved in planning as much as possible. Let them hand out the fliers. Let it be their project. They will be so eager and proud to show their hard and finished work off to their parents which will help remind and encourage the parents to go!

Juan Flores

11/13/2016 05:35:28 pm

Some method to encourage parent turn-out to an event is to communicate time options that would be capable for parent schedules far in advance.

Sarah Garcia

11/15/2016 11:32:39 am

1. Make sure you're communicating with parents a few weeks in advance so they can have it in their schedule. Keep one and two-way communication and advertisement going until the date of the event.
2. Have fun activities ready for families, kids may encourage their parents if they know there will be games, snacks, etc.
3. Talk to parents about a time of day and week that would work best for them and work with their schedules the best you can.

Jennifer Hargrove

11/20/2016 09:13:00 am

I would send out a questionnaire in email to each family with a survey of times and days that would work best for everyone and go with the most popular answer. Opening up the possibility of having the parent event on a weekend day, if that is a popular option. Even having two different parent events, so if a family is not able to make it to one, they might be able to make it to the other.

As for the content of the event, I would even put that up to a vote and suggestion. Its wise to have the event be something that keeps the children busy, maybe even an off site play activity like Chucky Cheese.

Esperanza Lira

11/26/2016 04:09:13 pm

Communicate with parents when they drop off or pick up their kids, have a conversation, tell them about yourself so they feel comfortable coming to a parent night. Offer free food as an incentive as well as other prices and/or games to get them familiar with each other and the staff. Remind their children of the parent night and offer points to those parents who stop by. Let them know that they don't have to be there for long but their attendance is important so they feel free to stop by without the burden of feeling like they have to stay for an hour or two when they've got other things going on.

Marisol Diaz

12/9/2016 12:13:57 am

Let them know ahead of time.
provide child care for them.
keep reminding them about it.

Leslie

12/13/2016 06:29:19 am

For such an event, we would let the parents/guardians know well in advance through newsletters and reminders that our facility will be hosting a "Parents' Night." Ideally, it shall be hosted after hours for approximately 2 hours. We would offer to have complimentary service for care of their children, if needed, with volunteer caregivers whom are available to stay extra hours. Providing catered food or healthy snacks and beverages usually draws people as well as announcing some form of display of children's works and performances. As for the children, we would provide interactive crafts and activities, while using materials that are special and not available during routine hours. Also, providing beverages, snacks, music, games and prizes will keep any child happy!

Karla Palomino

12/15/2016 07:58:42 pm

I would let parents know about such event ahead of time so they have time to plan and schedule if needed. If possible maybe create a sign up sheet for possible dates and times and have parents sign which date would best work for them. That way we can have an idea for which date and time would work best overall. Also we would provide child care after hours along with food and or snack and beverages for the children and the parents. And not to forget to keep reminding them about the event.

Kaile

12/27/2016 02:57:44 pm

To get a lot of parents to go to a parent night the beginning is to have a good relationship with the family. This will make them feel welcome. Providing food of some kind or a schedule of the night. And having an activity so that the parents aren't sitting and listening to you lecture all night

Nakayla

12/30/2016 08:08:52 pm

I think figuring what would work best with all of the parents before scheduling it would be the best because then you're working with their schedule

Jessica pattison

1/6/2017 01:14:00 pm

Communicating with parents about there schedules what would work best and what days so that they are able to attend. Also posting the dates on a poster or wall where patents can easily see it. Maybe handout flyers to children so that parents see that.

Thomas

1/12/2017 07:42:22 pm

We would communicate with the parents in person during pick-ups, as well as through our monthly newsletters. We would also provide the parents with child care. This event would be announced at least a month in advance, to give parents plenty of time to plan for it.

Nishat Iqbal

1/16/2017 10:56:37 am

I always invite parents through newsletter, And have a taco bar or some food theme that will excite the parents and offer babysitting so they can have fun for the evening and enjoy with teachers and other families.

Barbara Edrington

1/16/2017 10:56:44 am

Offer Child Care and snacks for children and parent's! Parent's are often really tired after a long day of work, so try your best to make it short and sweet!!

Rachel Simmons

1/22/2017 07:15:42 pm

Whenever we have a parent engagement night, we always make sure that we email all of the parents, as well as put a notification out on our parent table as well as a sign on the front door so they are easily able to read when the event time is and what not. We also put out a sign up sheet for parents to bring certain items for the event if they wish.

Erin

6/14/2017 01:01:40 pm

When selecting a date for a family event, I try to recognize: a) when our students and families are engaged in youth sports and music/dance instruction after school and in the evenings; b) other events that may be taking place in the school or greater community; c) celebrations and holidays to avoid conflicting schedules; and d) availability of staff and volunteers, including myself. I agree requesting RSVPs and items to bring may encourage attendance as well. The event should be communicated clearly with students and families through multimedia channels. The event should be brief, informative, and FUN!

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