Parent Assisted Learning (PAL) Packets ™ An Introduction for Parents Left-click on the arrow for the next slide Right-click for navigational and other options

Why is parental involvement in education important? [Students] are more likely to earn higher grades and test scores, graduate from high school, and go on to higher education. Low-income and minority students benefit the most. - National Coalition for Parental Involvement in Education

Introduction to PAL Packets What Is a PAL Packet? What Is Its Purpose? Features of PAL Packets Creating a Positive Learning Environment in Your Home How Well Is Your Child Doing? Communication Is Key

What Is a PAL Packet? A short activity aligned to an important skill or objective in language arts or math An activity that your child completes with you An activity that enriches concepts taught in the classroom

What Is Its Purpose? Provide additional exposure to key skills or objectives Provide students with extra help and encouragement Provide additional practice to increase student achievement Promote parental involvement

A short, motivating activity using multiple intelligences Graphic organizers to develop students’ thought processes Reference sheets to review material learned in the classroom Features of PAL Packets PAL Packets typically include:

Parent Letter States the skill or objective in the first paragraph Asks you to do the activities with your child and to have the paper returned to the teacher Dear Parent or Guardian: Your child is currently learning how to identify a synonym for another word. Here is your chance to help your child practice this important skill. In this PAL Packet you will find a short activity for you and your child to do. Please do the activity and The Back Page this evening. Then sign your name on The Back Page and have your child return it tomorrow. Remember, parents are a child’s first teacher. Thank you for your time and energy in making learning fun and exciting for your child. Sincerely, _________________________ Your child’s teacher

Explanation Parent Pointer: Explains more about the skill or objective, such as why it is important, where it is used in real life, etc. Directions: Explains in detail what to do

Activity Designed to improve your child’s skills and give him or her extra practice Has some type of worksheet or game for you and your child to complete together

The Back Page Has questions and alternate activities to close the lesson

Creating a Positive Learning Environment in Your Home Create a designated quiet area for homework. This area should have: –A desk or table with a comfortable chair –Good lighting –No distractions, such as TV, radio, or phone –School supplies: pencils, scissors, paper, glue, crayons, etc. –Reference materials: dictionary, atlas or globe, thesaurus, etc. Plan a consistent schedule for your child to begin his or her homework each day

How Well Is Your Child Doing? Know what is expected Seek teacher feedback Understand test scores Be acquainted with your child’s homework Know how well your child is reading Assess computer skills Pay attention to social skills Listen to your child

Communication Is Key You are the most important person in your child’s life Communicate a positive approach to learning Communicate clear expectations Provide praise Be consistent Ask questions that allow for discussion

Research overwhelmingly demonstrates that parent involvement in children’s learning is positively related to achievement. -School Improvement Research Series Kathleen Cotton and Karen Reed Wikelund Enjoy using your PAL Packets! Click here to return to the Main Menu