Parents are responsive to programs that offer opportunities to learn about and discuss the difficult issues of adolescence. Some innovative programs link parents' educational activities with their children's curriculum. Students, for example, work in school on issues of teenage suicide, drugs, sexuality, etc. Parents have collaborated with school staff to design programs that involve other community resources and agencies in addressing critical issues. Parent Groups - Schools can involve parents in school programs by recognizing parents' need to have peer support during their children's adolescent years.
Many parents appreciate the opportunity to share approaches and perspectives on parenting issues.
Schools hold parenting workshops for parents and offer seminars for divorced and single parents to address their special needs. As a result, parents may have less time to be involved in school based activities, especially if these activities are scheduled during the normal working day. However, work and issues related to work can be an important bridge to parents upon which schools can build. Strategies for Involving Working Parents Working Parents as Resources - School can help parents recognize that their experience provides them with an invaluable perspective from which young people can learn. Some schools are working with their business community to develop employee release time for parents that will enable them to share their skills, knowledge, and perspectives on work with students.