How can school counselors help parents be involved in their child's education?

School counselors play a crucial role in fostering parental involvement in a child's education, and one of the most effective methods for achieving this is by organizing workshops and providing resources. By doing so, counselors create opportunities for parents to gain knowledge about the educational system, understand developmental milestones, and learn strategies to assist their children academically and emotionally. Workshops can cover a variety of topics, such as effective communication with teachers, helping with homework, or supporting a child's mental well-being, which empowers parents to take an active role in their children's education.

Additionally, providing resources—such as informational pamphlets, access to community services, and suggestions for educational activities—enables parents to engage with their child's learning environment in meaningful ways. This proactive approach not only strengthens the school-home connection but also helps parents feel more competent and confident in their ability to support their child's education.

In contrast, assigning homework for parents or restricting communication would likely decrease parental involvement and could lead to feelings of alienation or frustration. Similarly, only providing updates during report card conferences limits the ongoing dialogue needed to support student growth effectively. Continuous and open communication, along with educational resources, is essential for building a collaborative partnership between schools and families.