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Provide one or two examples of new ways you might include parents by allowing them to use their skill sets.
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Inviting parents to come in as guest readers and read their favorite childhood book to the course. Also, inviting parents to come in and share about their profession when learning about community helpers.
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I would maybe first send out a questionnaire to find out what their skill set are, and then I would somehow provide an opportunity to let them use their skill set. One thing that we do at our school is put together an auction basket, and so sometimes a parent will donate an item or a provide a service they are willing to do.
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The Bible reminds us we are all given gifts by God to use for His glory. Therefore, as a body of believers, we can come together more fully by allowing opportunities to share. Reading, writing, science and social studies are subjects I enjoy. I would love to have a parent come in and teach a hands-on math lesson to my students. I find this a weak point for me. I teach myself math concepts on a regular basis, so that I can better offer it to my students, but having a parent come in is not only a learning experience for students, but for me as well. Having parents come in and share their profession with other students is another great way to connect. Children often talk about what they want to be when they grow up. This would give children an opportunity to hear first hand about being a nurse, fire fighter, teacher, office worker, etc. Allowing parents to use their skill sets behind the scenes is equally important. Often parent work schedules do not provide time for coming into the classroom. Instead, they could help by managing course party item sign ups. They could coordinate needed resources for student projects or be the treasurer of a fundraising event. There are so many possibilities.
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I like the coffee shop idea. We also have a private Facebook Page for each class’ parents. That’s a way they stay connected.
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In our school many parents have been hired as aides in our classrooms! I love that! As a parent myself, I see how valuable these relationships are!