Building on the Newsletter: Creative Ways to Engage Families in Play
Family newsletters are a powerful way to keep families informed, connected, and inspired to support learning at home. They help parents and caregivers understand what’s happening in the classroom and offer easy ways to continue the learning beyond school walls.
But newsletters don’t have to do all the work on their own. By layering in a few simple, playful strategies — like interactive family nights, quick challenge cards, and micro-workshops — educators can build on that strong communication foundation and create even deeper, more joyful engagement between school and home.
1. Host Family Play Nights
Invite families into the classroom for a short, interactive evening where they play alongside their children. Teachers can set up stations — block building, pretend play, art — that highlight how play connects to developmental skills. Families not only get hands-on experience but also leave with practical ways to extend play at home.
2. Send Home Play Challenge Cards
Instead of a long newsletter, share a single, simple idea on a colorful card. Example: “This week’s Play Challenge: Find five objects in your kitchen that can roll. Which rolls fastest?” These bite-sized activities respect families’ limited time while keeping learning front of mind.
3. Encourage Parent-Child Mini Projects
Offer occasional at-home projects that children can bring back to share. For example: “Build a pretend animal home using recycled materials” or “Draw a kindness moment you had this week.” Sharing in class builds excitement and creates a bridge between school and home.
4. Create a Family Idea Wall
Dedicate a space in the entryway for families to post pictures or short notes about play at home. Seeing peers’ contributions inspires other families and reinforces the community’s collective commitment to play-based learning.
5. Use Micro-Workshops for Parents
Instead of asking families to attend a long evening event, consider five-minute “pop-up” workshops during pickup. Teachers can quickly demonstrate one play-based activity, like using measuring cups in the bathtub for early math. Families leave with a practical takeaway without needing to carve out extra time.
When families experience the joy and purpose of play firsthand, they become natural partners in children’s learning. By moving beyond newsletters and finding creative ways to connect, directors can build a stronger bridge between school and home — one playful moment at a time.
About the Author
Laureen Reynolds is Highlights Early Learning's Director of Product and a former preschool teacher.