PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Children love to share their school with their parents! Ms. Helen and the teachers encourage parents to be a part of their children's education by being involved in school events and classroom activities.

Orientation

In September, a parent evening is held at school. This is a time for parents to gather, meet one another and the teachers. The Parent Handbook is reviewed, school policies are discussed and any and all questions are addressed.

Parent / Teacher Conferences

There are two parent / teacher conferences every year – in November and May. This is an opportunity for the parents to meet with their child’s head teacher one-on-one and discuss a thorough update about progress at school. Each head teacher fills out the school’s evaluation forms, reviews them with the director and shares them with the parents. Parents are encouraged to write their own comments and goals for their child following each meeting. It is at these times that the need for any special services, such as speech or physical therapy, is discussed. In addition, conferences may be requested at any time during the year.

Family Sharing

Traditionally, the month of December is Family Sharing Month as we invite parents to spend time reading a book and leading a special project or activity in their child’s classroom. Projects range from special skills or interests parents may have to sharing family holiday traditions. It is a special time for the children, parents and teachers.

Parent Volunteers

During the year, we also involve parents by requesting their help with a variety of tasks. A volunteer form is sent home at the beginning of each year looking for help in the following areas: Carpentry/Handywork; Sewing; Playground Maintenance; Spring Cleaning; and the Parents Activity Committee.

Parents Activity Committee

The Parents Activity Committee (PAC) is a parent-run organization that works closely with school administration and teachers to plan activities and fundraisers throughout the school year. The PAC acts as a liaison between CHDS and the entire Happy Day Community.

Parent Talk Night

Every February, we invite parents to participate in Parent Talk Night led by a CHDS alumni parent, Dr. Paula Rauch, who serves as Chief of Child Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital. Paula shares some valuable insight on the challenging process of parenting, specifically focusing on the different developmental issues typical of preschool aged children. Parent questions and concerns are always welcomed and addressed.