Engaging Grandparents

Here are some tips for engaging the grandparents of students in your classroom. Grandparents who are "parents again" encounter different challenges in dealing with schools, and giving them the support they need is crucial for developing valuable relationships with them.

1. Be aware of laws concerning guardianship because some grandparents may live with their grandchildren, but not have custody of them

2. Provide support and looks for others who can provide support to help grandparents. School is much diff. than it was when they were in school.

3. Establish a good rapport with them in the beginning of the year.

4. Acknowledge that their funds of knowledge are valuable and important and different than other people’s.

5. Be aware if the grandparents are tech savvy or not. Make sure they have access to everything sent home electronically like e-mails or newsletters, etc.

6. Make sure they know the rules of the school and the school system. Sometimes the grandparents are the only advocate for the child. The grandparent needs support, too. Be THEIR advocate.