Head Start Parent Committee

Why should I take part in Parent Committee?

• It is your way of making decisions. You can help plan the program year your child is in.
• Head Start can offer your child more activities and experiences because you are part of it.
• It gives you a chance to meet other parents and make friends.
• It can give you an experience working in a group. You may choose to be a leader in Parent Committee.
• Head Start works best when every parent takes part.

• Has programs for parents such as first aid, communication skills, budgeting, relaxation, or child development.
• Assists teacher in planning classroom curriculum and field trips.
• Plans educational parent outings investigating children's books/software, area employment opportunities, or are community services and family activities.
• Shares ideas or concerns with staff and/or Policy committee
• Elects parents to serve on health Advisory and Service Area Committies.

Head Start Parent Volunteering

How do I sign up to volunteer in the classroom?

• We ask all Head Start parents to volunteer five (5) hours a month in return for all services we provide free of charge.

How will I know what to do in the classroom?

• By attending the required "Parent Orientation", a special training on your child's first or second day of school. We ask you to attend school that day with your child, to learn about the daily routine, parent committee and other program requirements. We will explain each learning activity center and things you can do with the children. Teachers will explain their methods of discipline and rules for the children and answer your questions. We will also explain transportation rules.

Volunteering helps Head Start by:

• Allowing teachers to have more time to plan and work individually with children.
• Meeting our budget requirements. Head Start must show a value in donated service/goods that equal 25% of our yearly budget.
• You sharing your talents and your special knowledge of your child.

How can I volunteer?

• By helping in the classroom, talking with children about what they are doing, reading to children, supervising children in setting tables, washing hands, playing with children in blocks and housekeeping, stocking art shelves, setting up outdoor equipment, etc.