To not volunteer at DD's school as much the other super social and energetic mums?

[ShiftLD]

I'm not a super social person and to get things 'better' English is not my first language. I find very hard to keep conversations in events, don' t feel confortable reading with kids (how could I teach something Im still learning?) and to be honest, I feel quite isolated at school gates. So I'm avoiding the social part of the school, volunteers, coffee mornings, etc. DH says that if I don't fancy I dont have to do it after all they look for volunteers, its not supose to be an obligation. But I feel guilty about. What should I do??

What about the sort of help that doesn't require language or too much interaction, ours are forever looking for cake baking volunteers or people to help set up the fairs (carrying tables, really)?

Put your name down to help on school trips (often needed) or with young classes where a couple of children might speak your language and are also learning English?

Great ideas! The mums also organize coffee mornings, night outs, I feel so much pressure about. I have been in 4 occasions and at some point I get completly lost when they engage a quicly conversation. Its a nightmare and I just want to leave.

There is no obligation to get involved if you don't want too, so please don't feel guilty.

I volunteer in school, but most parents don't, I have the time though and a lot of people don't.

I help on school trips and help with readers, and am on the PTA.

Perhaps you could help readers saying they could help you too, they might get more out of it if they struggle too, you can help each other

You could always ask the school if there is anything you can do? They might have some behind the scenes stuff?

You could always offer to help the PTA, you don't have to do a lot if you don't want too, just offer to help at events manning a stall or something.

Most schools appreciate any help.

I keep myself out of all the PTA stuff as I don't wish to be dragged into too much fund raising, but will quite happily bake for a cake sale or help out at swimming lessons.

I'm not great at socialising with adults, but love reading with the children. Because I'm not teaching them anything (how could I as I would never try and be anything other than a mum listening to a child read), I am just providing a friendly ear and lots of positive feedback. I want them to enjoy their reading time with me. It might suit you too.

There are plenty of jobs that don't require conversation. We always need volunteers to cover books at the library or reshelve books. Sorting out gym equipment. A parent who offered to come in and take on my filing tray and put all the papers in the students portfolios every week would become my very best friend. Photocopying, laminating, changing out displays.

If you want to volunteer then speak to the school, explain your situation and concerns, and ask what they think.

If you don't want to volunteer then that's fine too.

There are plenty of Mums (like me) who work full time and can't volunteer at all.

I just make sure I'm properly appreciative of all the good work the PTA people do (it's a thankless task) and buy lots of cake at the bake sales!