Studies show that being involved in our children's education is more than just a good idea, it's vital to their success.

Tamra Pollard is a mother of five and is very involved in each child's education. She volunteers at the elementary school four days a week correcting spelling tests, proofreading stories, and her favorite, accompanying the class on a field trip. Tamra jumps at any opportunity to volunteer.

She says, "Once it's gone, it's gone, and your children grow up too fast as it is. And I just want to be as involved as I can."

But not everyone can afford to spend so much time at school. So what about those parents who feel they just don't have the time to make a difference?

"They don't need a lot of time and even just a half an hour, 15 minutes, anything and I think the teachers just so appreciate anybody that is willing to give their time to come and help."

Draper Elementary kindergarten teacher Diana Karen understands the frustration of not being able to participate in the "in class volunteering." "Being a working mom, I know exactly how parents feel when they can't be at school with their child. They can do so many things at home to reinforce those important days for their children and improve activities they're doing in school."

It's simple to help your children at home--

• encourage strong study habits
• set aside a time and a place to study
• have one spot for school items like notices, lunch money, report cards, school papers
• know what your child is studying and how they are graded
• attend school plays, board meetings, and parent-teacher conferences
• invite children to visit your workplace
• read to your children

Diane Karen says if you follow a few of these ideas, you will improve the classroom experience for your child. "As a teacher, as I work with children, it is apparent immediately to me, children who have had an opportunity to explore with their parents, communicate with their parents, and children who are read to. Any sort of effort sends a good message to the children."