The authors present a practical model for including parents of children with learning and behavior problems in the schools. First, characteristics of families with children with learning and behavior problems are discussed. Next, 4 features of an effective program to involve parents are presented. These features are: (a) proactive design, (b) 180-day plan for the school year, (c) clear goals and expectations, and (d) accommodation of diverse families. Our model for including parents has 4 phases. Phase 1: Preparing for parent involvement, Phase 2: Establishing parent involvement, Phase 3: Maintaining parent involvement, and Phase 4: Helping parents plan for the upcoming school year. Specific strategies for teachers to effectively involve parents in the school are discussed for each phase.
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