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A New Home for the VolunteerSpot Blog

Check out the latest news and content at SignUp.com

The VolunteerSpot blog has moved and is still alive and well! We continue to add new helpful tips and ideas every month with the goal of making life a little easier for all you awesome (volunteer, PTA/PTO, teacher, faith group, league, workplace, neighborhood, and community) Organizers out there.

600x300 SignUp Idea Center on laptop

 

SignUp.com’s Idea Center

We invite you to search our VolunteerSpot blog archive for past posts that may be of interest, and for fresh, up-to-date content, head over to the SignUp Idea Center. Here you’ll find fun ideas, best practices, smart planning tips, and free downloadable graphics, PLUS printable and fillable checklists, letters, coloring pages, appreciation certificates, thank you notes, and much more. 

We’ve got you covered when it comes to volunteer management (for nonprofit organizations, schools, teams, whatever your cause!), fundraising, holidays and other seasonal events, family reunions, picnics, potlucks… you get the point!


600x300 SignUp Idea Center on laptop

Whatever your interest, Start Planning Now at SignUp!

Posted at 10:02 AM in Back-to-School, Charity Auction Ideas (Schools too!), Classroom Activities & Party Ideas, End of the School Year, Fundraising Ideas, How 2 VolunteerSpot - Tips, Tricks and Technical, Online Sign Up Feature Friday, Personal Organization Tips, Potluck, Social Media for Schools & Nonprofits, Summer Fun, Tips for Non-Profits, Volunteer Action - Motivation and Coordination, Volunteering at School, Volunteering by the Season, Volunteering in the Community, Volunteering with your Congregation | Permalink | Comments (0)

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10 Fall-inspired Bulletin Boards

Fall Themes for the Classroom Bulletin Board

Make this fall the most golden yet by posting the most decked out bulletin board in your school district. Go crazy with scarecrows, leaves, pumpkins and anything you can think of!

Lots to Crow About via Library Learners

  Lots to crow about

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Reading Leaves You Happy via Lorri’s School Library

  Reading leaves you happy

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Class Pumpkin Patch via Oriental Trading

   Pumpkin patch

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Who’s Hiding In the Pumpkin Patch via Educate & Celebrate, Inc.

  Hiding in the pumpkin patch

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I’m Falling For You via MPM Ideas

  Falling for you

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Having a Ball This Fall via PE Central

  Ball this fall

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Fall Leaves Us Reading via Slo Dive

  Fall leaves us reading

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Count the Feathers via The Teacher Wife

  Count the feathers

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The Giving Tree via Unique Teaching Resources

  Giving tree

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Rake In a Good Read via Library Displays

Rake in a good read

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Related Posts:

Winter Bulletin Board Ideas

10 Spring Bulletin Board Ideas

11 Fall Crafts Using Leaves

Posted at 07:00 AM in Back-to-School | Permalink

Tags: autumn bulletin boards, bulletin board ideas, classroom bulletin boards for fall, fall classroom decorating, fall inspired bulletin boards

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8 Tips to Make Home Schooling a Breeze

HomeschoolingtipsHomeschooling Tips

The decision to home school your child is both admirable and challenging, as you take on both roles of parent and educator. From selecting the curricula to developing lesson plans to educational activities to shaping a social setting for your children, parents who take on home schooling have full plates. Before you dive in to teacher mode, here are a few suggestions to aid your approach and become your kid’s hero.

 1. Research before anything

Know your options. With more and more parents deciding to home school their children, there are more resources available. Research the different programs, look into different online courses and testimonials before you get started.

 2. Hit the books

Before you can become the educator, you have to do your own studying and prepare yourself to step in a teacher’s shoes. Find the best reads to train you how to think, plan and differentiate parent mode from teacher mode. Check out online and physical books to gain better insight to plan your schedule accordingly.

 Here are a few titles to look into for ideas:

The Ultimate Book of Homeschooling Ideas

Learning All The Time

Unconditional Parenting

 3. Find your group

Do not be afraid to search for counsel and advice from other parents who have been in your shoes. Find your own support group with people you can relate to and reassure you that you’re not alone. There are plenty of blogs on the national and local levels to turn to. Meet other parents who home school their children for coffee and get new ideas from experts.

See if one of Circle of Mom’s blog suggestions meets your needs here.

 4. Pin it

Take advantage of other resources, such as Pinterest to borrow a little inspiration, especially for breaks and after-school activities. Also, find useful printables and teaching techniques to apply to your own school days at home. All the help you need is out there; don’t be too proud to accept it.

5. There’s an app for that

It’s safe to say kids attending school today experience learning in a completely different way than their parents. We live in a digital-mania environment and that shows in a modern classroom. Show your young student isn’t missing out by incorporating the latest electronic innovations to your lesson plans as well.

Check out TeachThough’s 40 apps home school parents could use here.

6. Social Engagement

The main concern parents have when considering home school is the limitation they put on their children’s social life. Look into local sports clubs in your community and encourage your child to take up a new sport each season. Introduce your daughter to dance classes and watch her become a ballerina. Also, encourage them to pick up a musical instrument and gain that community learning as well.

7. Ask for help

Don’t be discouraged if you realize you cannot complete all of your tasks in a day. Filling the positions of mom and teacher is sure to take a toll on you, so do not feel like you failed if something slips up. Also, give yourself a break once in a while. Don’t eliminate the things you enjoy from your life, but instill balance in your routine.

8. Be patient not perfect

No one expects you to have the routine down instantly. Remember not to put too much pressure on yourself and learn as you go. You are not expected to have all the answers. Find what works and what doesn’t and use those discoveries to improve. 

Posted at 07:00 AM in Back-to-School | Permalink

Tags: activities for home schooling, circle of moms, home schooling tips, teach thought

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Best Books for Back to School (K-5th)

With the new school year upon us (or nearly so),  this list of back to school books is a great way to jump-start your child's reading.


BTSreadinglist

Your child should have no trouble finding something they will love in this fun list of books. 

Kindergarten & First Grade

First Day Jitters (Mrs. Hartwells classroom adventures) written by Julie Danneberg, illustrated by Judy Love

Everyone knows that sinking feeling in the pit of the stomach just before diving into a new situation. Sarah Jane Hartwell is scared and doesn't want to start over at a new school. She doesn't know anybody, and nobody knows her. It will be awful. She just knows it. With much prodding from Mr. Hartwell, Sarah Jane reluctantly pulls herself together and goes to school. She is quickly befriended by Mrs. Burton, who helps smooth her jittery transition. This charming and familiar story will delight readers with its surprise ending.

Fun, energetic illustrations brighten page after page with the busy antics surrounding Sarah Jane. FIRST DAY JITTERS is an enchanting story that is sure to be treasured by anyone who has ever anticipated a first day of school.

 

The Kissing Hand written by Audrey Penn, illustrated by Nancy M. Leak

School is starting in the forest, but Chester Raccoon does not want to go. To help ease Chester's fears, Mrs. Raccoon shares a family secret called the Kissing Hand to give him the reassurance of her love any time his world feels a little scary. Since its first publication in 1993, this heartwarming book has become a children's classic that has touched the lives of millions of children and their parents, especially at times of separation, whether starting school, entering daycare, or going to camp. It is widely used by kindergarten teachers on the first day of school. Stickers at the back will help children and their parents keep their Kissing Hand alive.

 

 


All Are Welcome written by Alexandra Penfold, illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman

A warm, welcoming picture book that celebrates diversity and gives encouragement and support to all kids.

Follow a group of children through a day in their school, where everyone is welcomed with open arms. A school where kids in patkas, hijabs, and yarmulkes play side-by-side with friends in baseball caps. A school where students grow and learn from each other's traditions and the whole community gathers to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

All Are Welcome lets young children know that no matter what, they have a place, they have a space, they are welcome in their school.

 

It's Time for School, Stinky Face written by Lisa McCourt, illustrated by Cyd Moore

The ever imaginative Stinky Face is not at all sure about starting school for the first time, so he has a whole bunch of questions for his mama! What if the school bus gets a flat tire? What if a spaceship lands next to the jungle gym at recess? And what if all the desks start flying around the classroom?

But with some reassuring answers from his always quick-thinking mama, Stinky Face soon realizes that going to school might be more fun than he ever thought possible.

 

 
Second & Third Grade

My Weirdest School #1: Mr. Cooper Is Super! by Dan Gutman, illustrated by Jim Paillot

In the very first book in the laugh-out-loud My Weirdest School series, A.J.'s third-grade teacher, Mr. Granite, is retiring after a million hundred years. It turns out the new teacher, Mr. Cooper, is even weirder than Mr. Granite! One day he's Rat Man and he teaches about rodents. The next day he's Lava Man and he teaches about volcanoes. But what happens when a real superhero is needed? Will Mr. Cooper protect the school from evil, or just embarrass it to death?

Perfect for reluctant readers and word lovers alike, Dan Gutman's hugely popular My Weird School series has something for everyone. Don't miss the hilarious adventures of A.J. and the gang!

 

 


Second Grade Holdout by Audrey Vernick, illustrated by Matthew Cordell

Second grade? Pfff! No, thanks.

The comically anxious narrator in this book thought that first grade had its problems, but overall it was pretty awesome. He'll take grade one over grade two any day, thank you very much! Especially because he and Tyler, his best friend, will not be in the same class this school year. On top of that, Tyler's sisters have been feeding the boys a steady stream of rumors about the horrors of second grade. Luckily they catch on that just maybe some of those stories are not one hundred percent true.

Could it be that second grade is not so bad? Find out in this laugh-out-loud story that has more than its fair share of heart.

 

My Weird School Special: Back to School, Weird Kids Rule! by Dan Gutman, illustrated by Jim Paillot

Summer is almost over, and you know what that means—time to head back to school! But when a tropical storm ends A.J.'s vacation earlier than expected, he and his family have to stay at Andrea's house. Ugh, disgusting!

Soon after, everyone in the house starts getting cabin fever, and even back-to-school shopping won't calm the kids down. So, Andrea and A.J. are sent to Camp Ockatollyquay. The catch? It's a camp to get kids ready for school! But not to worry—Andrea and A.J. rally their Ella Mentry School friends to end their summer on a note they'll never forget.

Join A.J. and the gang from My Weird School in this special series of after-school, holiday-themed chapter books featuring hilarious stories and thirty-two pages of games, puzzles, and more. This is one weird back-to-school special you won't want to miss!

 

The Exceptionally, Extraordinarily Ordinary First Day of School by Albert Lorenz

On the first day back to school from summer vacation, John is the new kid. When the librarian asks him if the school is any different from his last one, he begins a wildly imaginative story about what it was like. What follows are hilarious scenarios—his old school bus was a safari jeep pulled by wild creatures, the school was a castle, and the lunch menu included worms! His imagination wins him the attention and awe of his librarian and peers, setting the tone for a compelling story about conquering the fears of being a new kid, as well as the first-day jitters that many children experience.

 

Fourth & Fifth Grade

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig, illustrated by Patrice Barton

A simple act of kindness can transform an invisible boy into a friend...

Meet Brian, the invisible boy. Nobody ever seems to notice him or think to include him in their group, game, or birthday party . . . until, that is, a new kid comes to class.

When Justin, the new boy, arrives, Brian is the first to make him feel welcome. And when Brian and Justin team up to work on a class project together, Brian finds a way to shine.

From esteemed author and speaker Trudy Ludwig and acclaimed illustrator Patrice Barton, this gentle story shows how small acts of kindness can help children feel included and allow them to flourish. Any parent, teacher, or counselor looking for material that sensitively addresses the needs of quieter children will find The Invisible Boy a valuable and important resource.

 

Frindle by Andrew Clements, illustrated by Brian Selznick

Is Nick Allen a troublemaker?

He really just likes to liven things up at school -- and he's always had plenty of great ideas. When Nick learns some interesting information about how words are created, suddenly he's got the inspiration for his best plan ever...the frindle. Who says a pen has to be called a pen? Why not call it a frindle? Things begin innocently enough as Nick gets his friends to use the new word. Then other people in town start saying frindle. Soon the school is in an uproar, and Nick has become a local hero. His teacher wants Nick to put an end to all this nonsense, but the funny thing is frindle doesn't belong to Nick anymore. The new word is spreading across the country, and there's nothing Nick can do to stop i

 

 

Jake the Fake Keeps it Real by Craig Robinson, illustrated by Keith Knight

For fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Big Nate comes the first book in a side-splitting illustrated series from comedian and film star Craig Robinson, #1 New York Times bestselling author Adam Mansbach, and NAACP History Maker recipient and cartoonist Keith Knight.

Jake can barely play an instrument, not even a kazoo. And his art? It’s better suited for Pictionary than Picasso. Which is a real problem because Jake just faked his way into the Music and Art Academy for the gifted and talented (and Jake is pretty sure he is neither). More jokester than composer, Jake will have to think of something quick before the last laugh is on him.

 

 


Dork Diaries 1: Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life by Rachel Renée Russell

Meet Nikki Maxwell! She’s starting eighth grade at a new school—and her very first diary packed with hilarious stories and art in this SUPER SQUEE updated edition of Book One of the #1 New York Times bestselling Dork Diaries series!

Nikki confesses all in her first diary ever: her epic battle with her mom for an iPhone, meeting her new soon-to-be BFFs Chloe and Zoey, falling for adorably sweet crush Brandon, dealing with her zany little sister Brianna’s antics—and the immediate clashes with mean girl Mackenzie, who becomes Nikki’s rival in a schoolwide art competition.

 

 

 

Related Posts

Eight Great Peanut Free Back to School Lunchbox Ideas

Back to School Tips for ALL Types of Moms!

Back to School Planning | Room Parents

5 Tips for the Innovative Classroom

 

Posted at 07:00 AM in Back-to-School | Permalink

Tags: Back to School reading list, best books, books, books for kids, Grade school reading list, k-5 books

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Eight Great Peanut Free Back to School Lunchbox Ideas

Getting your kids out the door in the morning can be difficult enough without a lunchbox battle. But it can be impossible when you have to navigate through allergies, school regulations/restrictions, and picky eaters. 

Here are some yummy, easy, kid-approved peanut free lunch ideas to help make mornings a little easier.

 

PeanutFreeBacktoSchoolLunchboxIdeas
Kid-approved Lunchbox Ideas

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School Book Sandwiches via Family Maven

School-book-sandwiches

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Leftovers On A Stick Bento via Following In My Shoes

Leftovers-on-a-stick-bento

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Vegetable Hummus Bites via Totally The Bomb

Vegetable-hummus-bites

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Easy Owl Sandwich via Family Maven

Owlsandwich

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Ham and Cheese "Sushi" via Life of a Ginger

Ham-cheese-sushi

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Take-to-School Taco Bar via Food Network

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3 Peanut Free School Lunch Ideas via Echoes of Laughter

3PeanutFreeLunchesEchoesOfLaughter

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Lunch Box Chicken Wrap via Taste of Home

Lunch-Box-Chicken-Wrap_exps159802_THHC2377563C05_08_4b_RMS-2-696x696

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Posted at 07:00 PM in Back-to-School | Permalink

Tags: back-to-school, lunch ideas, lunchbox ideas, peanut free lunches

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Back to School Planning | Room Parents

It's a hard truth, but the back-to-school countdown has begun for many schools already. If you are planning on becoming a room parent this year (or are even thinking about it), rest easy - the online world is full of great resources to make your job easier, more streamlined and even fun.

Check out our top 5 room parent resources:

RoomMom1. Essential Room Mom Teacher Checklist: As a critical liaison between teacher, parents and students, the designated Room Parent has lots to cover with the teacher. From a calendar of parent volunteer needs to how the teacher prefers to communicate, student food allergies and school policy, this go-to list is a valuable asset to any room parent.

2. Room Parent Signup Sheets, Letters & Templates: Struggling with how to reach out to class parents at back to school time? Fret no more - take a look at the best list online of sample signups and letters and get started today. 

3. Free online parent scheduler: Gone are the days of paper signup sheets and annoying reply-all emails! Free online sign up sheets and parent scheduling tools from SignUp.com are your key to getting more parents involved by making it more convenient for them to volunteer. Set up classroom calendars (field trips, class parties, enrichment lessons, reading time, lunch and recess duties, you name it) online, invite parents to sign up from their computer, smartphone or tablet and rely on automated reminders to help everyone keep their commitments!

4. RoomMomSpot.com: Get organized and inspired with the dedicated RoomMom blog, RoomMomSpot.com. With everything from sample room parent letters and online signup templates, to class party ideas, top tech tools and apps for room parents, and more - RoomMomSpot is your go-to online destination for everything 'room parent'.

Pinterst small5. Pinterest: Pinterest is taking the room parent community by storm! Visual pin boards allow for creative collaboration and sharing of ideas when it comes to enhancing the classroom and school environment. Find recipes for the class party, field trip ideas, bulletin and door decorations, even parent volunteer appreciation inspiration all on Pinterest. Follow SignUp.com's Room Mom Ideas board HERE.

 Bonus: Watch & share our Room Mom Video - click HERE!

Posted at 07:00 AM in Back-to-School | Permalink

Tags: room mom, room mom ideas, room mom resources, room parent, room parent ideas, room parent resources

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5 Tips for the Innovative Classroom

5TipsfortheInnovativeClassroom

How to adjust to classroom life with iPads

We cannot deny the takeover the digital age has inflicted on our classrooms and learning techniques. Students in a modern class setting are not only used to desktops, but also smart phone and tablets as daily necessities. As educators who grew up under what some would consider “historical” circumstances, here are a few tips on how to approach the digital classroom.

Instill Good Habits

Combine the digital aspect and lessons in a positive way. Embrace the revolution of receiving information at one’s fingertips, but utilizing it correctly. This is a good opportunity to promote morals and ethics into one’s routine, especially with the immense amount of content online.

 Seek Out the Education

Do your part and research educational programs beforehand and download these programs to your class’ tablet. Choose applications that supplement lessons effectively to the point your students won’t notice the lesson behind their technology free time. Encourage parents to do the same at home by supplying them with a list of appropriate apps in the next newsletter.

Get Organized

Using online tools will assist you to organize all the chaos that accompanies managing a classroom. Present the importance of organization by keeping tabs on assignments, tasks, lesson plan and more all online. We do not have to view change negatively, but spin the situation in how it can be beneficial for everyone.

Prepare

With recent advancements, technology is only going to continue to expand, which is more reason to accept and adapt. As educators, you are preparing your students for professional atmospheres, so this is the time to implement that mindset with the addition of technology use.

Hands-raisedPromote the Now

Although a bulk of our culture appears online and the Web is the new go-to, do not forget to teach your students the importance of appreciating the present. Continue to expand on students’ health and active lives by holding traditional recess activities and knowing when to set the digital devices aside. 

Posted at 07:00 AM in Back-to-School | Permalink

Tags: adjusting to digital class lessons, innovative classroom tips

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The Perfect Holiday Fundraiser

The holidays will be here before you know it. With the chaos of planning parties and holiday shopping, you also have the Fall/Winter fundraiser to figure out. Here are some classic favorite fundraiser ideas sure to sweeten your season.

Screenshot 2017-09-19 14.08.31

Still deciding on which Fall/Winter fundraiser would be best this year? Check out these tips and guidelines for selecting the right one for the season. 

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Uncover 2017-2018 fundraising trends. What sells itself, makes great gifts and offers up to 50% profit? Find out what's on the list!

Screenshot 2017-09-19 14.10.41

 

Posted at 02:25 PM in Back-to-School, Fundraising Ideas, I Support My School, Volunteering by the Season | Permalink

Tags: product fundraisers, school fundraisers

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4 Strategies for Recruiting School Fundraising Volunteers

When it comes to fundraising, the more the merrier, right? Get the extra and support you need to make this year's fundraising campaign a huge success! Here are 4 strategies to recruit volunteers from Clay Boggess, Senior Consultant at Big Fundraising Ideas.

Moms Volunteering Blog

Gala planning and hosting socials invoke glamorous images of volunteerism and philanthropy; school fundraising, not so much. Thus, when it comes to getting parents on board to help run them, it takes a little extra ingenuity to sell this as an impactful opportunity.

Parents, especially working moms and dads, already struggle to find time to make dinner. Breathlessly running out of the house with lunches, backpacks, and multiple kids with shoes untied is a familiar image for many. With such limited bandwidth to offer up, parents may choose to avoid assuming additional duties for a fear that they won’t be able to meet the demands of something like a school fundraiser.

Therefore, potential volunteers need major value propositions to consider giving up their time, which is already at a premium. As fundraising season approaches, start thinking about ways you can recruit (and hopefully retain) fundraising volunteers.

Be Social

Moms and dads, have you ever felt bad about going to that happy hour or Bunco night? Parents are the first to feel guilty when they take some “time off” from their most permanent role.

You might be surprised to know that researchers encourage you to take this time off and relish in it. Time away from the kids is something increasingly recommended, according to Washington Post, and it might even make you a more relaxed, happier, and effective parent.

Translate this into your fundraising by building in and highlighting a socialization component throughout the course of planning, carrying out, and wrapping up the school fundraiser. Find ways to make your “adult time” feel productive and fun. Consider these ideas:

  • Host a short kickoff breakfast that parents can attend when they drop their kids off for school. If you can wrap it up before 8:30 a.m., parents may be able to attend without missing any work.
  • Host an appetizer hour right after work and offer to provide babysitting. Find some high school students who can watch the younger kids, and eliminate a barrier to participation by ensuring parents are covered.

 Fundraising leaders will find that these opportunities to bring parents together will offer the dual appeal of time to unwind and the “warm and fuzzy” feeling of giving back. You’ll gain a captive audience where you can communicate your mission; get parents to sign up for specific roles; and inspire them with the unique energy and enthusiasm found in coming together for a common cause (and some tasty snacks).

Have Options for Commitment

School fundraisers are uniquely appealing as volunteer opportunities because they are generally short in duration.  Nonetheless, that does mean that some volunteer roles won’t require a couple months of commitment, or a lot of concentrated time during those few weeks. For example, if parents end up on a “planning and celebration” committee, they might have volunteer responsibilities before, during and after the selling period.

However, the modern parent may not have this kind of time, according to “We Are Teachers.” Their research found that uncertainty about what the school’s needs are coupled with too little time to volunteer are major hurdles to parent engagement. This may sound discouraging, but it also means your volunteer team has its work cut out and can strategize effectively to overcome these hurdles by breaking down big jobs into small, manageable tasks.  Ensure your tasks are:

  • Specific. Clearly define the expectations and completion time for tasks. Fill in as many blanks as possible. The less uncertainty a parent will have to overcome before signing up, the better.
  • Tied to larger impact. Small tasks don’t have to be insignificant. Communicate how even posting fliers can make a difference.

Creating roles of different sizes might mean that, as a leader, you’ll have to fight your fears of delegation. Accept as true that someone out there is good at and wants to do a task you personally loathe. If you’re investing time in building a committed volunteer team, you owe it to yourself to trust its members.

Connect Remotely

Social media and the smart-phone revolution is not just something for the kids; the power of rich, remote connectivity can be a powerful tool for parents on the go.

Find out what remote platforms the parents in your volunteer group are using by doing a simple survey at the first meeting, and make as much use of these tools as possible. Good managers in the workplace regularly talk about “playing in the same sandbox” as their audience, and this metaphor translates well for fundraising volunteers.

If your volunteers are already spending their free time on a site like Facebook, or are comfortable learning a new tool like WhatsApp, use these options to create efficiencies that will get business done. You can explore tips on how to take your fundraiser into the social space, as this is something student sellers and parent volunteers increasingly look for.

Of course, some folks will always prefer face-to-face interaction, so don’t forego the occasional traditional meeting. Being at the same table is still one of the most effective ways to work and create a sense of team spirit. But for those parents who still want to be a part of the action, explore forms of communication—such as Facebook or emailing—to update and inspire on a more convenient and regular basis.

 

About the author: Clay Boggess has been designing fundraising programs for schools and various nonprofit organizations throughout the US since 1999. He works with administrators, teachers, as well as outside support entities such as PTA's and PTO’s. Clay is a Senior Consultant at Big Fundraising Ideas.

Posted at 10:21 AM in Back-to-School, Fundraising Ideas, Volunteer Action - Motivation and Coordination, Volunteering at School | Permalink

Tags: school fundraising, volunteer recruitment

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Making the Most of Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parent-Teacher Conferences. If you have school-aged kids, you'll attend them. And if you're a teacher, you'll schedule them. They're quick, they're important, and they're just the tip of the iceberg for developing a strong teacher-parent-student relationship.

SignUp.com makes it easy for both parents and teachers to make the most of their time together. From scheduling to reminders, from planning checklists to student follow-ups, your conference will be meaningful and easy! Please check out our helpful idea-center articles and resources below:

 

Learn how to use SignUp.com for parent-teacher conference scheduling here:

 

Parent Teacher Conference SignUps

Teachers - we asked top teachers to share their tips for showing parents how much you value their child's presence in your classroom, and how to surface strengths and address concerns.   

Parent Teacher Conference Tips for Teachers

Parents - check out this helpful reference of what to do before, during and after your conference to get the most out of your teacher meeting.

Parent Teacher Conference Checklist for Parents

 

Include students in the conversation with these helpful tips and conversation starters.

Parent Teacher Conference FollowUP

Posted at 03:05 PM in Back-to-School, Personal Organization Tips | Permalink

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Back to School Tips for ALL Types of Moms!

If kids come in all shapes and sizes with varying needs and dreams, so do moms! But every parent has a few similarities – the main thing being not enough hours in the day. (#amiright?)

Our B2S Hero - SignUp.Com-FB-1200x630

Here’s where SignUp.com has got your back, smoothing out the school chaos and helping organize all the fun events revolving around your kids this school year. Be a Back to School Hero!

Class Parties, Snack Helpers, Reading Mom, Lunch Servers, Teacher Group Gifts

And don’t forget all the extra-curricular activities that come with the back-to-school season.

Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Swim, Football, Dance, Band, Clubs, Little League

Signup.com blog back 2 school ideas for busy moms

We’ve got a terrific line up of back to school tips for all types of moms!

  1. Busy Mom? Amy Barseghian of BestofLifeMag.com says: It’s Okay to say NO, and still be your kid’s hero.
  2. From a Teacher who is also a Mom: Carly Brydon of LipGlossandCrayons.com explains 7 ways to volunteer and be your TEACHER’s Hero!
  3. First time School mom Molly Budde of RaisingBuddiesblog.com shares ideas on how to ease into the school routine with young kids.
  4. Creative Mom Melodee Fiske over at SpaceshipsandLaserbeams.com created a free 1st day school printable (and an inspired tuna melt sandwich idea to surprise a kiddo for after school!).
  5. Victoria Armijo is a former teacher and she gives her insider tips for a smooth transition from lazy summer days to early nights and meet the teacher events! Read all 8 of her ideas over on ABCCreativeLearning.com.
  6. Prepared Mom: Do you Visit your child’s school a week before it starts? We think that’s a brilliant idea! Several more pro-mom tips from Michelle Petersen over at TheMumsyBlog.com.

Be A Back To School Hero 728x90

And a few Bonus Tips while we’re at it!

  • #aintnobodygottimeforthatdanglist Enjoy this oh so REAL (and hilarious) take on the 4 types of back to school moms – by Jennifer Burby at TheChampagneSupernova.com
  • Kelly Tomlinson of LiveLoveTexas.com helps with Kindergarten readiness.
  • Did you know SignUp.com is perfect for organizing all your Scouting needs? Use it to make your life easier when you oversee popcorn sales, campouts, Blue & Gold Dinners plus Den & Pack Meetings! Check out Elia Garrison’s Father/Son Scout photos on Conservamome.com.

How is your Back2School season shaping up? Share your back to school photos and grams using #OurBack2School and check out how everyone else is celebrating the beginning of another school year.

Our Back To School Hero - SignUp.com-Pinterest

Posted at 11:18 AM in Back-to-School, I Support My School | Permalink

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Apps That Help Keep Moms on Track

Organize Your Family, Organize Your Life

As the school year rushes to an end and summer is fast approaching, it can be hard to keep track of everything going on. Sports season, End of Year parties, Field Day, and Summer vacation plans can become overwhelming. Luckily, SignUp.com has you covered with all these helpful organizational apps. 

 

Screen shot 2014-07-14 at 12.18.54 AMMy Life Organized

My Life Organized (MLO) tackles all of your tasks with stride by creating to-do lists with priority marked, making planning easier and more effective for you. MLO makes sure you never forget those important tasks by automatically building a task management system for your activities. You may also sync your schedule to your mobile or desktop devices in addition to other individuals.

Download application for iPhone and iPad here 

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Screen shot 2014-07-14 at 12.18.12 AMRemember the Milk

Remember the Milk reminds you about every item on your to-do lists no matter how big or small. This app connects all of your online tools, such as Outlook, Gmail, Google Calendar and Twitter and accesses your to-do lists in one place. Remember the Milk also backs up your scheduled tasks and reminds you by sending notifications as well. You will never forget something on your list again.

Download application for iPhone and iPad here

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Screen shot 2014-07-14 at 12.17.33 AMEvernote

If you are someone who goes through packages of post-its inadvertently, then digitalize your sudden hits of ideas with Evernote. Take a photo and write down your notes or record voice memos, make your to-do list and share your ideas with friends through this revolutionary app. Evernote allows you to store all of your side ideas and important documents in one place, creating a productive, less stressful planning process for you.

Download application for iPhone and iPad here 

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Screen shot 2014-07-14 at 12.16.22 AMMy Minutes

Don’t get off track with My Minutes helping you out. Input more productivity in your day by scheduling time spent on certain activities. My Minutes works perfectly for setting goals and avoids wasting time. Set an allotted time for how long you want to dedicate to a certain task and My Minutes keeps you on schedule – from working out, limiting web browsing, working on projects and many more tasks.

Download application for iPhone and iPad here

 

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Screen shot 2014-07-17 at 9.16.18 PMCozi Family Organizer

The whole family is constantly busy, but that is by no means any reason not to stay in sync with everyone, thanks to Cozi Family Organizer. Track your household with the color-coded calendars, lists and schedules Cozi Family Organizer creates for you. Forgetting to put an item on the grocery list is no problem because you can access your lists anytime, anywhere and your family sees the changes too. Even share a part of your day with the family by snapping a photo and posting to the family journal section of the app. Staying connecting has never been so easy!

 Download application for iPhone and iPad here

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Also see

5 Must-Have Back to School Apps

Time-Saving Apps for Busy Moms

5 Fave Apps for Your Family

Posted at 12:47 PM in Back-to-School | Permalink

Tags: clipboard, cozi family organizer, evernote, my life organized, my minutes, remember the milk, time management applications

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SignUp.com Potluck Ideas

Savvy Tips and Ideas for Planning Potlucks

SignUp.com is full of resources for organizing your school and nonprofit events, but we don't stop there. In the Potluck Planning Idea Center, you can find recipes, SignUp sheets, printables and more to make your potluck or party a hit too! Whether you're planning a family reunion, holiday get-together or teacher appreciation meal, SignUp.com has got you covered. 

Potluck-Planning-Center

Browse our Potluck Planning Center for:

  • Free Potluck Printables and Meal Cards
  • Free, Online Potluck SignUp Sheets
  • Potluck Planning Tips
  • Teacher Appreciation Potluck Ideas
  • And more!

Visit the Potluck Ideas Center to help you with all of your potluck planning and share your ideas with your friends!

 

Posted at 04:30 AM in Back-to-School, Personal Organization Tips | Permalink

Tags: potluck ideas, potluck meal cards, potluck planning, potluck recipes, signup, signup.com

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SignUp.com for School Activities

School Activities Ideas | Time-Saving Tips, Hacks and Reminders

SignUp.com's free online SignUps and coordination solutions make organizing school activities a snap - whether's it's setting up a classroom volunteer calendar, organizing a teacher appreciation luncheon, or planning a fundraiser! Looking for more? Our NEW School Activities Idea Center is chock full of free resources, printables, planning tips, and ideas for all types of school activities. Click here >

School-Activities-Planning-Center

In the the School Activities Idea Center you'll find:

  • Back to School Night Tips
  • Back to School Icebreakers
  • First Day of School Photos
  • Free Classroom Signs
  • Ideas to Boost Parent Involvement
  • After School Activities
  • And more!

Visit SignUp.com's School Activities Idea Center today and spread the word!

 

Posted at 02:12 PM in Back-to-School, Classroom Activities & Party Ideas | Permalink

Tags: after school activities, after school ideas, back to school night, first day of school activities, school activities, signup.com

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SignUp.com Parent Teacher Conferences

Guides, Checklists and Tips for Parent Teacher Conferences

 SignUp.com not only provides the easiest, online schedule tools for planning Parent Teacher Conferences, but their brand NEW Parent Teacher Conference Idea Center offers tons of resources, checklists and best practices too.

Parent-Teacher-Conference-SignUps

What you'll find in the SignUp.com Idea Center:

  • Parent Teacher Conference SignUps
  • Follow-Up Parent Teacher Conference Guide
  • Parent Teacher Conference Checklists for Parents
  • Parent Teacher Conference Tips for Teachers
  • Ways to Get 100% Parent Attendance at Parent Teacher Conferences
  • Free Classroom Printables

Visit the SignUp.com Idea Center today to find everything you need for all of your Parent Teacher Conferences coming up. 

Posted at 09:33 PM in Back-to-School, Teacher Tuesdays | Permalink

Tags: back to school, parent teacher conference, parent teacher meetings, signup, signup.com, tips for teachers

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