Fathers and Middle School (You Matter)

As children grow older, they depend less and less on us for their basic needs. When my son was learning to walk, I remember holding him up and guiding him across the room trying to work on his balance and strength. Now that he’s an ultra-active 12-year-old, it’s more likely that you will hear me telling him to stop running through the living room or grandma’s house.

The same cannot be said of fathers volunteering in middle school. Many times, parents are actively involved volunteering during the early years as we help them navigate the beginning of their school career. Yet when they get to middle school, parental involvement tends to taper off as children learn to “walk for themselves.” The participation is generally lower for fathers. However, I would argue this to be the most important time to get involved for a myriad of reasons.

First of all, as much as teenagers say they don’t want parents around, I would venture to say they really do.  Not only can fathers provide guidance when help is needed, they also temper behavior. Children tend to act differently when there is a male influence. Your presence signals to your child and the other children that someone is around to make sure everything will work out. Also in the back their mind, it’s nice for your child to know they are bankrolled for any “unforeseen” expenses.

Secondly, your participation gives insight into with whom and how your child interacts at school. When chaperoning on numerous field trips, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the other children, and the teachers for that matter, outside of conferences or occasional email exchanges. Knowing the other children has helped me talk through relational issues with classmates, because I better understood the other child.

Additionally, getting involved gives you perspective on life. Work will always be there, but your children will not. Taking a few hours off to volunteer helps the school and enriches you in the process. Schools are in need of additional expertise in many areas that are second-nature for you.

If you’re looking for ways to get involved, here are a few “simple” ways to get connected:

1. Call your child’s teacher and offer to help
2. Join the PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)
3. Join the Educational Foundation (or start one)
4. Chaperone a fieldtrip (My personal favorite)
5. Help build props for the school play
6. Give a talk to a Social Studies class
7. Organize a fieldtrip to your office/facility
8. Donate something for work to a school auction
9. Attend a sporting event and cheer (It matters)
10. Run an after-school club (chess, computers, photography, etc…)

Share other ways you connect with your school at darrenthedad@gmail.com