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As a preschool owner or manager, your mission is to provide a nurturing and high-quality educational environment that fosters the holistic development of every child while growing admissions and parent satisfaction.
But there might be a mismatch between parents’ expectations and pedagogical principles.
While new education policies explicitly promote play-based, child-centered learning, many parents remain more comfortable with traditional models emphasizing structured instruction and measurable progress.
How can these goals be effectively combined in practice?
In our previous blog post, we explored how teachers can overcome this by blending experiential and academic activities into the daily activities with the children. Now we will take a look at how to engage parents and show evidence of children’s learning.
The Importance of Parental Involvement
Parental involvement is crucial for a preschool's success. In Finland, children learn through play and aren't scored, yet parents are confident in the quality of education. However, daily face-to-face meetings between teachers and parents can be hectic, and using paper notes is unreliable. A better approach is needed.
Cooperating with a child's family is crucial. Parents know their children best and want to engage in their learning, see evidence of progress, and handle daily practicalities smoothly. Teachers and families are in the same boat, working for the child's best interest.
Research indicates that active parental involvement is associated with improved academic performance, enhanced social skills, and a more positive attitude toward learning. For preschool owners and managers, fostering strong parent-teacher relationships is crucial for increasing trust and satisfaction, which are essential for building a reputable and successful preschool.
How to Engage Parents?
1. Regular Communication
Utilize purpose-built digital platforms, such as Kindiedays, to keep parents informed about their child's activities, progress, and upcoming events. These tools save time and provide all the vital information in one place, enhancing communication. Tools like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, or email are not secure and cannot be recommended.
2. Digital Learning Tools
Integrate digital learning tools to involve parents in their child's learning. Kindiedays offers real-time updates and digital portfolios, ensuring consistent communication and engagement with the parents.
Explore all the benefits of Kindiedays Digi Tools
3. Parent-Teacher Meetings
Schedule regular meetings to discuss each child's progress, strengths, and areas for improvement. In Finland, these discussions typically happen once in three to six months. Digital portfolios serve as a standard reference, making conversations more meaningful and productive to plan the child’s developmental journey.
4. Interactive Workshops and Events
Organize workshops and events to educate parents about the preschool's methods and curriculum, as well as how they can support their child's learning at home. These activities strengthen community and collaboration.
5. Volunteering Opportunities
Encourage parents to volunteer in the classroom or during events. This involvement builds stronger relationships and allows parents to experience the preschool environment firsthand.
6. Feedback Mechanisms
Create channels for parents to provide feedback and suggestions. Regular surveys and open-door policies help you understand and address parents' needs and expectations, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty.
Benefits of a Strong Parent-Preschool Partnership
Taking parents along on their child's learning journey is crucial for providing the best start in life. Implementing effective strategies and utilizing innovative tools, such as Kindiedays, ensures that parents are engaged, informed, and invested in their child's education.
- Enhanced Learning Outcomes: Children perform better when parents are involved.
- Improved Behavior: Reinforces positive behavior in both home and school settings.
- Stronger Community: Engaged parents contribute to a supportive preschool community.
- Increased Enrollment and Retention: Satisfied parents will choose and recommend your preschool.
What next?
Schedule a free online demo and I will show you how Kindiedays Digi Tools works and how easy it is to use—no IT skills are required.
👉 Click here to schedule a call on Zoom or contact me on WhatsApp!
I look forward to meeting you.
Milla van der Burgh