Teachers know that connections with families will reap benefits, but they struggle with the "how." Research shows that there is a link between family involvement and their children's academic success. Other research shows that children learn best when instruction is meaningful and connects to the knowledge they and their families hold.

Family nights are after-school, evening, or weekend events which involve families (adults and children) in enjoyable and academically grounded activities and experiences. Family nights provide a way for schools to learn about and from families and for families to learn about and from schools. The ultimate beneficiaries are the students who benefit from such increased involvement and from improved communication and understanding.

Reproducibles and other materials include:

" Invitations

" Agendas

" Sign-in sheets

" Evaluation forms

" Activity worksheets

" Handouts

" Overheads

" Additional resources

" Connections with national standards

" Tips and suggestions for an outstanding event

Includes information on adaptions for special populations, issues around providing food and incentives, and cost-saving ideas. Each chapter is a self-contained unit, containing all information, suggestions, and materials for planning and running a successful event. All family night designs have an academic focus and are aligned with standards.

This book is appropriate for primary teachers and headteachers or anyone in the school or district responsible for family involvement.