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Home › Webmother's Musings

Volunteering Is Good for Your Family and Your Community

By Elisa Ast All

I greet red-faced customers who are waiting in line. I count and dole out change. I direct traffic to ascertain a smooth flow.

No, I am not moonlighting as a bank teller or traffic cop. I am volunteering at a preschool carnival fundraiser. And it feels great!

I used to think I didn't have time to volunteer at my children's school. With a more-than-full-time job and three kids ages 5 and younger, I just didn't see how it fit into my hectic schedule. However, I have found ways to make volunteering a part of my life – for my own sake and that of my kids.

By contributing to and spending time at my children's school, I am able to share experiences with them that I wouldn't normally be able to. Spending a morning in the classroom lending a hand enables me to see my son interact with his peers, work on a new project or just let him show off in front of Mom. Donating an item to a silent auction or a bake sale fundraiser allows us to contribute to the financial stability of the most important place to our kids outside of home – their school. And by selling – and buying! – items like wrapping paper and cookie dough for the school, we show how much we care about our children's home away from home.

While the school appreciates this very much, it's clear that my son values it even more. On the days that I stay at school or when I am helping out at the carnival, he simply shines. My actions speak louder than any words I could say: "I care about you. You are important to me."

Even if you have limited time, there are ways for you to get involved:

  • Classroom Help: During school hours you can assist staff members in the classroom – even an hour is helpful.
  • Bake Sales: Whip up some muffins or a cake. You can even make some ahead of time and freeze if you know you will be busy the night before the bake sale.
  • Field Trips: Joining a field trip as a supervisor is a great way to spend a day with your child and have fun.
  • Career Day/Show and Tell: Speaking at a school career day or during show and tell enables your child to see a different side of you.
  • PTA or School Board: Join one of these important groups and make an impact.
  • Tutoring: Do numbers add up to lots of fun for you? Habla Español? Offer to tutor students in your favorite subject.

A few hours now and then might not seem like a lot to you, but you will feel great about your contributions. You are setting an example for your children to learn about giving back to the community. And your children will reap long-term benefits from the quality time you spend in the areas that matter most to them.

Speak with your child's teacher and see what opportunities are available. Each school is different and has its own needs. Find out where you can help, and start making a difference today.