Family engagement in schools is a shared responsibility between Educators, Social Workers, Child and Youth Workers, parents and families, Administrators, school board staff, government, public health and community partners. For engagement to be effective, all parties should be committed to reaching out in meaningful ways. Family engagement has a significant impact on children’s academic and developmental goals, as well as their health and well-being.
Resources for Schools
- Family Engagement in Comprehensive School Health Programming – Focus On – Public Health Ontario. In this review, you will find a summary of best practices and frameworks to support family engagement.
- Parenting in Partnership – Ministry of Education. In this policy document you will find information to support school staff in implementing parent/family engagement strategies at school.
The Ontario Teachers’ Federation (OTF) Parent Engagement modules cover 7 different parent engagement topics with resources, tips and learning opportunities for school staff.
- Establishing Positive Relationships
- Modelling Effective Communication
- Supporting Students’ Academic Success
- Contributing to School Life
- Engaging in Wellbeing and Safety Issues
- Addressing Equity Issues and Concerns
- Managing and Resolving Conflicts
Resources for Families
Home-Based Engagement
Parent/family engagement is not limited to School Council or Parent Involvement Committees but can include supporting students with schoolwork, talking about their school day, reading together, etc.
- Your child’s education: a parent guide to our school system – Ministry of Education
- 5 Tips to Help Your Teen Succeed in High School – HPEPH
- Let’s go to Kindergarten! – HPEPH
