School settings today are multicultural, yet, in many regards, educators have failed to change their expectations to match the children in their care. This article examines the often strained relationship between parents and educators regarding family involvement. She points out that teachers often have preconceived notions about how parents…

Recognizes the importance of each classroom being a proactive, multicultural learning center, noting the barriers (such as low self-esteem) in adults and children that often inhibit such an environment. Gives teachers and administrators specific actions and strategies for a systematic approach to family-school collaboration and advocacy for…

Describes challenges of school-initiated family involvement, including ambiguous definitions of family involvement and diversity of backgrounds. Provides guiding "themes" for involvement philosophies and interactions. Examines how three types of family professionals can work with schools to strengthen family involvement: teacher training…

An interview with Christopher Schenk, Britain's Inspector of Schools, reveals his impressions of the differences and similarities of early childhood education in Britain and the United States. Topics included teaching methods, at-risk children, standardized tests, early intervention, family involvement in the schools, funding, and health care.…

Presents the use of family involvement webs to integrate diverse family life experiences to support the same education objectives. Describes steps to develop and implement family involvement webs, including identifying a theme, brainstorming family involvement activities, identifying family roles, implementing the web, and evaluating the outcome.…

Describes the founding and role of the nonprofit organization Udbhas, which promotes literacy among children in the slums of Calcutta while providing a level of food, clothing, and social and educational experiences generally absent from their homes. Discusses the children's background and identifies problems in bringing learning to these…