There's a reason that I'm not (now or ever) going to be a room mom. I know what my limit is, know how (dis)organized I am, and know myself well enough to know that it's simply not a job I'm interested in taking on. Don't get me wrong. I love my children and enjoy volunteering at school. I always send things for parties and occasionally make a field trip. I simply am not the one who should plan the next holiday party.
Watching other parents do it has been a teachable moment for me, though. Some room parents have it, and others don't. What are some common mistakes that room parents make?
Not communicating with the teacher
This is not your classroom; you are a guest in a teacher's classroom -- her home base. How would you feel if someone came into your home or office and took over without even a word to you? While I'd like it if they came to clean, I wouldn't like it in most other circumstances. Your teacher should be your very first point of contact for every room activity you're supposed to be involved in. Ask her what she wants and follow her lead. Do not overstep your boundaries.
Not communicating with the parents
Don't use your role as room parent to go on some sort of wild and crazy power trip. You aren't the only one who can do something, come up with a good idea, or volunteer in the classroom. The best room moms communicate with parents and are gracious and appreciative of the help they receive. Send emails, make phone calls, and talk to parents up at school when you can.
Gossiping
You may be privy to some personal information about your child's teacher, children, parents, and families in the line of this volunteering opportunity. Keep anything you find out to yourself. If a family can't contribute towards a class gift because of money problems, or if you overhear the teacher discussing a student's IEP while you're reading to the class, remember that this information isn't for public knowledge. Use good judgment and be discreet.
Also, unless we're friends, use my email address for school-related information only. I don't care if you're selling furniture or having a Tupperware party.
Complaining
You volunteered to do this job. I, the other parents, and the children are appreciative of your hard work. Please remember that you are volunteering to do something, and don't waste time complaining about it. In some (many) schools, parents are turned away from being a room parent because there was only room for one or two. They'd gladly take your job if you don't want it anymore.
Slacking off
Please don't wait until the day or week before a big party or school-wide event to start planning or communicating with parents or the teacher. Holidays and the last day of school don't sneak up on you.
Forgetting your target audience
Classroom parties aren't about showing off your crafting skills or showing the other mothers everything that you can do. They're about the kids. Don't forget that.
What other mistakes have you seen room mothers make?
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