Planning Family Events That Actually Work
We’ve all been there—you spend weeks planning a family event, and only a handful of people show up. It’s discouraging, but it doesn’t mean families don’t care. In fact, the problem often isn’t a lack of interest, but a lack of alignment with what families actually need and can access.
In my work with schools, nonprofits, and community groups, I help reimagine family engagement events to feel less like obligations—and more like opportunities for connection. With the right approach, family events can be warm, well-attended, and worth everyone’s time.
What the Research Says:
Family events that succeed tend to be:
Collaborative: Families are involved in planning, not just invited afterward.
Accessible: Designed with real-life schedules, transportation, and child care needs in mind.
Culturally Responsive: They reflect the families they serve.
According to the Dual Capacity-Building Framework for Family-School Partnerships (Mapp & Kuttner, 2013), the most impactful engagement experiences build both the capacity of staff and families to partner—meaning events aren’t just informational, but transformational.
Common Mistakes That Kill Attendance:
Poor Timing – Midday or after-work hours may not fit with families' routines.
No Childcare or Activities – Parents with young children need safe, engaging options on-site.
Unclear Purpose – If families don’t understand what they’ll gain, they likely won’t come.
One-Size-Fits-All Planning – Not all families want pizza night or reading night. Diversity matters.
Too Formal or Too Rigid – If it feels like a meeting, people may treat it like one—and skip it.
What Works Instead: Real-Life Ideas That Draw Families In
1. Family-Friendly, Flexible Formats
Offer two time slots (day and evening)
Include free childcare or toddler play stations
Set a relaxed, welcoming tone with coffee, snacks, and name tags
2. Build It Around Their Real Lives
Tie in practical skills (e.g., managing screen time, quick dinners, behavior tips)
Include interactive activities families can do together (like sensory crafts or vision boards)
3. Make Them Feel Seen
Invite local parents to co-host or co-plan
Offer bilingual materials if needed
Start with a family story or testimonial to set a welcoming tone
4. Follow Up With Purpose
Thank families for coming
Share photos (with permission)
Offer a quick feedback survey or a “What would you love next time?” prompt
Example: What This Looks Like in Central Illinois
In small towns, you often have limited staff and even more limited time. But I’ve seen amazing engagement happen in spaces like:
Libraries with storytime + parent chats
School gyms transformed into “Movement Nights”
Church basements hosting blended family meetups
Outdoor BBQs with simple resource tables and music
The key? Keep it real, relational, and relevant to the families you serve.
You don’t need flashy themes or expensive setups to engage families. You need intentionality, empathy, and a willingness to co-create something meaningful. The best family events don’t just check a box—they open a door.
Need help designing or promoting your next family event? I’d love to help.
📩 rootedreachconsulting@gmail.com
🌿 Follow along @RootedReach
References:
Mapp, K. L., & Kuttner, P. J. (2013). Partners in Education: A Dual Capacity-Building Framework for Family–School Partnerships. U.S. Department of Education.
Halgunseth, L. C., Peterson, A., Stark, D. R., & Moodie, S. (2009). Family Engagement, Diverse Families, and Early Childhood Education Programs: An Integrated Review of the Literature. NAEYC.
Caspe, M., Lopez, M. E., & Wolos, C. (2006). Family Involvement in Elementary School Children’s Education. Harvard Family Research Project.
