Parents play an essential and multifaceted role in the success of any after-school program. When parents become actively involved—whether the offering is hobby classes, academic support sessions, or a wide range of extracurricular workshops—their participation and encouragement serve as a powerful driving force behind student involvement. Parental engagement significantly boosts attendance rates, as children are more likely to attend and enjoy programs their parents support. Moreover, when parents are included in the process, it helps to foster a sense of trust and open communication between families and the school. Here’s how schools can take intentional steps to involve parents in after-class offerings—and why these efforts truly make a difference.
Start with Open Communication
Clear and timely communication is key to building parent trust. Don’t just announce new classes — explain the why behind them.
- Share benefits of the classes (e.g., skill-building, stress relief, screen-free time)
- Use multiple channels: WhatsApp groups, newsletters, school apps, printed flyers
- Make the schedule and pricing easily accessible
Organize a ‘Demo Week
Invite parents and kids to experience short versions of your after-class programs before enrolling. Think of it like a tasting menu for extracurriculars.
- Gives parents confidence in the instructor and setup
- Lets kids try and choose their interests
- Converts curiosity into actual sign-ups
Highlight Success Stories
Nothing sells better than results. Showcase real student transformations from past batches to help parents visualize what their own child might gain.
- Before-and-after stories (e.g., a shy child now performing on stage)
- Testimonials from other parents
- Short video clips from classes or showcases
Involve Parents in Showcases & Events
End-of-term recitals, exhibitions, or performance days are great opportunities to involve parents — not just as spectators but also volunteers or co-creators.
- Invite them to help with costumes, decorations, or snacks
- Let them vote on themes or event names
- Host “Parent & Me” workshops occasionally
Keep Feedback Loops Active
Parents appreciate being heard. Collect suggestions regularly and implement changes where feasible.
- Post-class feedback forms
- Monthly check-ins via WhatsApp or emails
- Short polls to decide future workshops
Offer Flexible Payment & Commitment Plans
Sometimes, hesitation comes from logistics. Make it easier for parents to say “yes” by offering:
- Drop-in classes
- Weekly/monthly payment options
- Discounts for siblings or full-term enrollments
Make It Visible: Use BeeBuddy or Local Platforms
List your school’s after-class offerings on platforms like BeeBuddy to maximize visibility and accessibility. These community platforms allow you to share detailed program information, schedules, and unique highlights with a broader audience. By showcasing your activities online, you not only keep current parents informed and engaged, but also attract new families in the neighborhood who are searching for high-quality extracurricular options for their children.
