Volunteering When You Have Other Children

jonesx6 (1606) 06 Dec 2008 08:23 AM

Why don't they allow siblings to come with you? That is sad to me. You've come up with some creative ideas. Laura

Mary Ann Romans (26881) 06 Dec 2008 08:09 PM

The reasons I have heard include that they aren't covered by the school's insurance, they are a distraction to the classroom or you can't volunteer properly if you are watching your kids.

Valorie Delp (49340) 07 Dec 2008 05:28 AM

I personally do not volunteer unless it's when my spouse is home or it's something I can do from home. I cannot do a good job volunteering with my chidlren with me. Plus, when I do volunteer, part of my purpose is supporting or being with that one child--something that is extremely important in our family.

Mary Ann Romans (26881) 07 Dec 2008 03:43 PM

With a spouse who works out of the house during the day, it is impossible to volunteer during the day without the kids. Also, usually these class events aren't about being with your child but the entire class, handing out snacks, organizing a game, etc. My two little ones are usually very helpful. When they were allowed last year, they helped quite a bit.

deedee1231 (4030) 07 Dec 2008 05:56 PM

When my kids were in school I volunteered for practically everything. I went on nearly every field trip and I was room mother several years as well. It is very hard to volunteer at field trips while you are watching toddlers at the same time. I think it is ok in the classroom if the younger children are well-behaved, but unfortunately, a mom can't always predict whether her children will behave well or have an off day.

I used to make babysitting arrangements for my younger children but many other moms brought their cranky toddlers or crying infants into the classrooms. That just stresses out the teacher and makes everything a little harder, so I understand why some schools are making these rules.

Valorie Delp (49340) 08 Dec 2008 04:02 AM

As a former teacher, I would've been livid to have a mom bring in her cranky toddler and I did not allow parents to bring siblings on field trips with my class. Of course, this is NYC so I needed moms to watch all the kids get off the subways, make sure no one got run over, etc. I never had a mom bring in a cranky kid--but I think I'd kick them right out. UGH

Mary Ann Romans (26881) 08 Dec 2008 05:51 AM

I wouldn't bring younger children on field trips, I agree with that. There is just too much going on with a field trip.

But assuming that all siblings are cranky in a classroom isn't fair either. Toddlers are unpredictable of course, but a well-rested, well-fed toddler (or preschooler) can be a delight. At this age, they so much want to please everyone. It isn't that difficult to watch a school presentation with a sibling on your lap.