Parent Teacher Associations, or PTA’s, rather unfairly have a bad reputation. The stereotype is one of overbearing do-gooders and mums who hassle everyone for money and their time, not to mention being a bit of a clique.
While there is always going to be the few bad apples spoiling it, the reality is that for many schools, the Parent Teacher Association is a lifeline, raising much needed funds for the school and for the children that go to it. It might be that they fund fun activities such as craft days or new toys, or it could be essentials such as new books and up to date Educational Furniture. Either way, the intentions behind the PTA are good.
The problem is that many parents just do not have time to fully engage with it. They are busy working or looking after families and cannot devote their time to meetings and organizing. However, that does not mean that you cannot support your school PTA from afar. In this post, we will look at some of the ways that you can be a part of the team without giving up your life to it.
Sponsorship
If you own a business or have some influence in your workplace, look at how you can support the PTA and school. Some businesses match fundraising – for every £1 the PTA or school raises they add 10p, for example. Others may be happy to sponsor an event in return for some advertising on a banner or on the school website. It is a win for the business too – customers like to see how local businesses help out in their local community.
Share ideas
You might think that just because you cannot attend the PTA meetings that you cannot share your ideas, but that could not be any further from the truth. The majority of PTA’s would be overjoyed at people sharing their ideas and supporting them, even if they are unable to play a more active part in it. If you have an idea that you think would work, drop them an email.
Donate prizes
Of course, there is always a risk that you will end up winning it back, but if your PTA puts a call out for donations for raffle prizes and tombolas, it can be a good excuse to clear out all those jigsaws and bubble baths that you do not use. It makes space for you and raises money for the school – it is a win all around!
Use your skills
Are you good at painting faces or braiding hair? Can you blow up balloons or make cakes? If so, offer your skills and services at events. It might mean taking a couple of hours out every few months, but it is a great way to integrate yourself into the school community and help out the PTA without being too involved.
There are plenty of other ways that you can support your school’s Parent Teacher Association without attending every single meeting and giving up your life. Do you have any to add?
Thanks for reading jade x
Mummy and me x2 