Tips For Engaging Parents In EYFS Activities

Parent involvement is essential in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) to support children’s learning and development. When parents actively participate in their child’s nursery activities, it strengthens the home-school connection, builds trust, and improves the child’s overall progress. Below are practical tips for engaging parents in EYFS Dubai activities.

Nurture open communication

Maintaining clear and regular communication is key to engaging parents. Use newsletters, emails, or messaging platforms to inform parents about upcoming activities, themes, or events. Sharing updates about their child’s progress and achievements encourages parents to feel connected and involved. Open channels of communication also make it easier for parents to voice their ideas or concerns.

Host interactive workshops and events

Invite parents to participate in hands-on workshops, such as storytelling sessions, craft activities, or gardening projects. Hosting parent-child events, such as “Stay and Play” mornings, gives parents a chance to engage in their child’s learning environment. These interactive sessions help parents understand the EYFS curriculum and its importance while enjoying quality time with their child.

Create flexible opportunities for involvement

Parents may have varying schedules, so offering flexible ways for them to contribute is important. For example, parents who cannot attend events during the day could help prepare materials at home, share stories via video recordings, or join virtual meetings. Flexibility ensures more parents can participate in meaningful ways.

Encourage home learning connections

Provide parents with simple ideas to extend EYFS activities at home. Sharing tips like practising counting during shopping trips or reading bedtime stories supports learning outside the nursery. Sending home activity packs or sharing themed suggestions, such as building a craft related to a current topic, helps parents feel involved in their child’s education.

Celebrate cultural diversity

Engage parents by inviting them to share aspects of their culture or traditions with the nursery. Activities like storytelling in their native language, sharing recipes, or participating in cultural celebrations create an inclusive environment and nurture collaboration.

Offer parent feedback opportunities

Actively seek input from parents through surveys or informal discussions. This demonstrates that their opinions are valued and helps teachers tailor activities to align with parental interests and priorities.

Recognise parent contributions

Acknowledging parents’ efforts nurtures a sense of appreciation and motivates further involvement. Whether it’s a thank-you note, a display board showcasing their contributions or a mention in newsletters, recognising their role strengthens engagement.