Some parents are consumed with problems of more immediate concern and do not have time or energy to devote to the program.
Some parents have negative impressions about school due to their own school experiences and are reluctant to become involved.
Some parents fear unequipped to deal with teachers. They may feel inferior educationally and/or financially, and they may feel that they have nothing to contribute.
Some parents feel that they are going to be blamed for their child’s shortcomings and that difficulties will be seen as a reflection of their knowledge, integrity, or ability as parents.
Some parents feel uncomfortable about their inability to communicate in the teacher’s primary language. They may be unsure how productive a meeting will be if they don’t know each other’s language.
Some parents are kept away by difficulties with transportation, arranging substitute care for other siblings or disabled family members, or inflexible work schedules.
Some cultures make a sharp distinction between the roles of family members and those of professional teachers and thus keep the domains of home and school separate.
Some parents hesitate to ask questions of teachers or express disagreement, out of respect for their authority.