I Love Being Part of the PTO (and Why You Should Consider it, Too!)

If you have school age kids, you’ll find there are various opportunities to get involved in their educational experience, from options to help in the classroom to fun school sponsored events with your local Parent Teacher Organization (PTO).

Honestly, I love that my kids’ school has these events. They’re a fun way for the kids to hang out and it can be a great way to connect with other parents.

However, actually going to PTO meetings and helping set up these events? I always thought, “No way! I’m too busy with my four kids and everything else!”

Last fall, while I was at one my kid’s activities, I was chatting with one of my friends. She also has four children and was telling me how she was involved in her school’s PTO. I couldn’t believe it. I told her she was a SUPERMOM.

She said, “Would you rather be involved and know what’s going on or not?” 

Wow. I took those words to heart.

I honestly kept thinking about it the whole school year — Should I get involved? Should I just go to one of the meetings?

I thought about every possible excuse I could to not attend the PTO meeting.

I’m too busy, too tired. They have their own little group, I’m sure they don’t want or even need me.

Finally, I talked to a few of the moms who were part of the PTO. They gave me confidence and encouraged me that I would be welcome and my input appreciated.

So, I went for it.

I attended the very last PTO meeting of the year. And there were other parents who were also there for the first time!

The wave of nervousness went away when I heard other parents talk about how they had always wanted to be involved, but weren’t exactly sure how. I knew exactly what they meant.

I realized that all of these events at the school don’t just happen magically. They are the result of the hard work of a team of parents who want to make so every student has a memorable year at school.

As kids get older and move on to middle school, or even high school, a new group of kids and parents will come into the mix. Don’t be shy, show up to a meeting or even sign up to help for one event. I can guarantee that your time, ideas, and help are every much appreciated.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]