Parental Involvement and Performance of Kindergarten Pupils: Basis for an Action Plan

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Parent involvement and interest in child education are viewed by educators, school management and politicians alike as key factors to succeed in school. The success of children in education is the product of the partnership of the parents and the school through the cooperative ventures of teachers, pupils, and parents. Lack of parental involvement leads to the behavioral problem, absenteeism, and poor academic performance particularly in language literacy and numeracy of the pupils. The study deals with the assessment and analysis of parental involvement in the school setting for which to enhance the learning competencies and help the kindergarten pupils increase their academic performance.

METHODS

The research design used in this study is descriptive analysis since the study is descriptive in nature. The design is the most appropriate approach since the study did not only involve gathering and tabulation but more importantly the interpretation and analysis of data. Seven kindergarten teachers and fifty parent representatives were given a questionnaire survey. The questionnaires were then distributed, administered, and retrieved after giving the respondents ample time to complete the survey. The data gathered were subjected to tabulations and statistical treatment.

RESULTS

Kindergarten teachers considered a lack of parental involvement as a factor that affects the academic performance of pupils. The activity under parental involvement which received the highest rating is Parenting. This implies that parents have the highest regards of their vocation to provide help and care for their child. Parental involvement is associated with children's higher achievements, better behavior, and social skills and lower drop-out rates. The strong partnership and cooperation between teachers and parents are highly recommended to achieve better opportunities for the pupils' learning and development.

DISCUSSIONS

The results demonstrate the need to strengthen the practices of parental involvement in the school setting to improve and sustain the educational growth of the pupils. School and community linkages must be developed to provide more support from the parent to school. The development and progress of the child are not confined in school alone, in fact, it is a joint effort of the school and home. Parents play a crucial role in supporting their child's education without their active support the success of their child is not possible. Parental involvement is truly a factor in the success of a child's education.