How Can I Volunteer at School When I'm Not Crazy About Kids?

Initiation into the parenthood club doesn't automatically make people lovers of children. There are plenty of individuals, who, while they may love and adore their own children - hanging out with children in general is not exactly their idea of a fine time. Parents may feel like they couldn't possibly volunteer at their child's school and have to be around all those kids! Don't despair - there are plenty of volunteer jobs that many schools need filled, and you won't have to work with kids in a classroom:

1. The library - volunteers are often needed at the school library to help manage books and materials: checking books in and out, re-shelving books, helping with orders, repairs of books - check with the school or the librarian and find out if there are any jobs a volunteer can take care of. A nice quiet back room somewhere without a passel of children might be perfect.

2. Taking care of sports equipment - most schools have plenty of balls, mats, and other physical education supplies that need upkeep. Balls may need to be blown up or patched, equipment cleaned, and repairs made. Some schools have a physical education teacher you can contact to find out if this is a volunteer job you can assist with, for others, you may need to ask the principal if there is room for you helping keep the equipment in working order.

3. Fundraising - Most schools need parents who are willing to help out with fundraising projects and events. Check with the parent-teacher group at your school if you are interested in getting involved with helping plan fundraisers or find ways to raise money for your child's school.

4. Grading papers and preparing materials - This is a great volunteer job for very busy parents - you may be able to take home papers to grade, or help by cutting and preparing materials for art projects or other classroom activities. Check with your child's teacher to see if there are things you can do without having to be in the classroom - or if you can come in once a week to grade papers, arrange the art closet, or other non-child tasks.

5. Helping with repairs and cleaning - With tighter and tighter budgets, many schools can no longer afford a full maintenance crew. If you are handy with a few tools, you may be able to help with furniture repairs, maintenance of classrooms, cleaning and other necessary tasks. Check with the principal to see if your talents and skills can be used to keep things operating at your child's school.