A Model for Involving Parents of Children With Learning and Behavior Problems in the Schools

Abstract

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.

An Analysis of Haitian Parents' Perceptions of Their Children With Disabilities

“…In this article and others previously mentioned, Darch et al (2004) stated that parental involvement led to increased student achievement in school, higher test performance, more consistent attendance, higher rates of homework completion, higher grades, increased motivation and more positive attitudes towards school activities. They identified some of the strategies that could be used to engage parents of these children such as providing behavioral techniques to be used at home with reinforcement, parental support in the classroom and reinforcement of social skills taught at school.…”

African American Families in the Special Education Process

“…A school-wide communication system that serves as a consistent and predictable communication resource for African American parents is important. This may take the form of a parent handbook that addresses questions commonly asked by parents regarding special education and other matters, a calendar of parent conferences provided at the beginning of the year, or a school Web site that contains pertinent information that is updated weekly or monthly (Darch, Miao, & Shippen, 2004). When empowering parents through communication, educators must work to meet the unique needs of the parents with whom they work.…”

Community and School Practices to Reduce Delinquent Behavior

“…Researchers (Darch, Miao, & Shippen, 2004;Howland, Anderson, Smiley, & Abbott, 2006;Spann, Kohler, & Soenksen, 2003) have indicated that family involvement is related to increased academic achievement, sustained positive attitudes toward school (Brandon, 2007), and improved attendance (Darch et al, 2004). Researchers (Darch, Miao, & Shippen, 2004;Howland, Anderson, Smiley, & Abbott, 2006;Spann, Kohler, & Soenksen, 2003) have indicated that family involvement is related to increased academic achievement, sustained positive attitudes toward school (Brandon, 2007), and improved attendance (Darch et al, 2004).…”