Getting involved in your children’s education shows them that learning is important, helps them perform better academically, go farther in school, and reduces absenteeism, according to the National Education Association. But being an active parent is not just good for your kids. Getting involved in your child’s education can do great things for you, too!

Choosing to join in at school can bring you closer to your child by giving you insight into a big part of his life, and it can give you the chance to use skills you may not always get to use. If you were a whiz at organizing in your pre-parent days, putting together a fund-raiser or a school music program is a great way to keep your talent in tip-top shape. Likewise, if you were a financial pro, helping the school come up with money for a new program could be a breeze for you.

What you can do:

• Join the PTA
• Host class parties
• Chaperone trips
• Volunteer your time or expertise in the classroom
• Organize a fund raiser
• Keep in touch with your child’s teacher
• Supervise homework time

For more information and resources on getting involved in your child’s education, log onto the University of Michigan Health System’s resource page on getting involved in education.