A ton of our kids are from the community surrounding our church. Most days we never hear from parents, let alone see and become involved in conversation.
We've recently instituted another change as a result of this experience. In order to encourage even more relaxed conversation between small group leaders and parents, we've changed the way we dismiss kids from their small groups on Wednesday evenings. Parents are now asked to present their check out tag to the attendant then proceed to their child's small group area to pick up their child from the small group leader.
These may not seem like huge changes but we are making ministry to parents a priority. In order for this to really happen, we've got to earn their trust. Trust happens after time and when you're in relationship.