Description: Reflecting on different family supports in which schools are already engaged helps you explore new ways to enhance family engagement.
Directions:
A. Create a scavenger hunt booklet. Provide documentation and description for each item found or identified. If an item was not identified or found, indicate so in writing.
In your school, identify the following items:
1. Two recent (not more than 3 months old) pictures of families that are displayed.
2. An example of something that tells parents about a staff member at the center.
3. An artifact that shows that families are appreciated at the program.
4. A way in which a welcoming environment has been created for families.
5. One person who knows the names of all the parents in one classroom.
6. Artifacts in the classroom environment, curriculum materials or school forms that recognizes the diversity of family
structures (i.e., single parents, adopted or foster families, gay or lesbian parents, mothers and fathers, etc.).
7. Three people who talk to parents for more than 10 minutes each week.
8. A form of communication from a family member to the teacher or school administrator.
9. Something that a teacher did lately as a result of a parent request or suggestion.
10. Evidence of community resources being shared with families.
11. A memory that was created at the center that teachers and families still remember and cherish.
B. Write a reflection to include:
• What is the school doing well? (S3d)
• In what areas could the school improve family support and engagement? (S3d)
• What did you learn about family support after completing this activity? (S3d)