Parent Involvement in CCD

Since parents and guardians are the primary teachers of the Faith their involvement in CCD is vital. Without it the child will not learn to their fullest potential. Getting parents involved with CCD is extremely hard because of today’s hectic schedule that most lead. The catechist therefore, must somehow reach out and let the parents know how much their help is needed to foster the foundations of our Faith with their child.

Since classroom time is limited, parent participation is essential and critical to the Faith formation of each child at CCD. The catechesis will not become part of the child’s life without the parent’s daily example and re-enforcement. Parent’s need to support their child and they must teach their child the importance of the Faith and the Church by their example. The parent's good example continues by helping their child get to class on time, attend regularly, participate in class, maintain respectful and proper behavior, and complete the homework that is assigned.


How can we obtain parent involvement in CCD?


• Have a parent meeting prior to the start of CCD. This will allow parents to meet the DRE and it gives your priest and DRE the opportunity to express how much parent involvement is needed for their child’s faith education.


• Have a CCD Open House. A great time to have it is right after the parent meeting so that the parents and child can meet the catechist, see the classroom, and find out what they will be doing for the year. The catechist will have the opportune time to introduce themselves and give the parents an introductory letter. The catechist can provide the parents at the CCD Open House with information of what is expected in the classroom and what the children will be doing during the year. They can also inform parents of the expectations and rules of the class that will help in making the classroom productive, creative, and enjoyable year for all. Teachers can also ask if parents are interested in volunteering and if they have any information that can help aid them in better understanding their child and how to contact them. By having a CCD Open House it will alleviate any worries and questions parents may have and it will give the family reassurance and encouragement of what the CCD program is all about. *Be sure to have a Class Contact List at the door for the parents to sign their name and their contact information. You can also have a Volunteer Sign Up Sheet available as well.


• Have a Classroom Newsletter. Classroom newsletters are an excellent way to keep in touch with parents and help them be a part of their child's education. Parent’s love to know what is going on in their child’s classroom and frequent and regular class newsletters enable parents to sense the feeling and momentum of the class and gain insight into what their child is learning.


• Ask for parent volunteers. Parents can be involved in your CCD program by volunteering to help as teachers, teachers’ aides, office clerks, hallway and outside monitors or by offering to assist a teacher on an occasional basis. Ask parents frequently so that they know their help is needed and that they are welcome.


• Homework assignments. Homework helps reinforce what the students have learned and lets parents know what their children are doing in class. By helping their child with homework it allows parents to interact with their child and helps them be a part of their child’s education.



What do you do at your parish to promote parent involvement in CCD?