Are you over Involved?

Yes, there is such a thing as a parent that is too involved. Don't get me wrong, teachers do appreciate parental volunteers. I love it when I have parents who make my copies for me, and I ADORE parents who are willing to grade spelling tests. (Oh, how I hate to grade spelling!) But, some parents just go too far. A few rules to remember regarding classroom etiquette are as follows:

• You are a guest. The point of a classroom is for education. Teachers are grateful for your help, but don't disturb the learning process. Make plans ahead of time so the teacher expects you. That way she can have everything ready when you come. You can go over instructions, etc. ahead of time so learning can continue as you enter the classroom. Do your best to minimize interruptions. Children have short attention spans, so the teacher will have to start from the beginning when the lesson is interrupted.
  
• Do not undermine the teacher's authority. The teacher understands that it is your child, but she has to accomplish a lot in a little amount of time. Also, for the sake of sanity, she must have a set of institutional rules for her class. For example, it may not seem like a big deal to you if your child talks in line, but if that is the rule, then you are causing problems with the teacher as well as the other students when you encourage your child to break this rule. No matter how small or insignificant a rule may seem, support the teacher's authority.
  
• Accept "no" for an answer. Teachers appreciate your help, but they also have different personalities. Some teachers do not want parents to help them with grading, etc. Often, the jobs that teachers need help with are not the most enticing ones. I used my volunteers to make copies for me. I know that is not the most fun job, but that is what I needed. If the job you are looking for is not one they have available for you, gracefully accept it.
  
• Do not follow your child's class around constantly. Sounds crazy, but parents do it! School is not the time to socialize with your child or his teacher. Teachers are required to get more done in a school day than they are given time to accomplish. Having parents follow your class everywhere makes it very difficult to get things done. It is disruptive because students are distracted by extra people in the room.
  
• Schedule your appointments. Teachers are professionals. It is amazing the amount of requirements (outside of teaching) that are placed on teachers. Time is very limited. If you need to speak with a teacher, schedule an appointment. Also, give the teacher an idea of what your concerns are. That way he can be prepared with helpful information at the meeting.