How about a contest, like a 'guess the # of jellybeans' sort of thing but with a school supplies theme. Maybe use erasers or crayons? The winner could recieve a spirit wear item, free copy of the yearbook, something like that...

The idea is probably to get the PTO message out and make parents feel welcome but not necessarily to have it be a big recruitment fair. My group has a flier explaining PTO activities with contact information.

Key PTO members should be present, noticeable and engaging. Maybe even wear t-shirts with a snazzy slogan on it to catch people's eyes???

Our Open House is usually one month after school starts but this year we were finally able to get it close to the beginning of school soooo simple first maybe next year we can get more complicated.
Basically it will be were the parents can come and visit with their kids teachers and see the school-- I would love to have a scaveger hunt but maybe that is something we can shoot for next year
We are a small rural school PTO now consist of 14 members where 3 of us do most of the work.. I'm going to have refreshments thru out the school so people won't stay in one spot--have a PTO table for sign ups..and that is where I'm stuck..

How elaborate do you want to get? We do a free hotdog supper. A local grocery cooks and serves so it's very easy for us. I would at least serve light refreshments to encourage people to hang around and visit a bit. Maybe throw in a scavenger hunt or bingo too.

I am needing some ideas for our Open House
We are doing it a couple of days after school starts in August. It will be like a meet and greet time. Something simple, Our PTO will set up a table with PTO info, sign up form, etc. Needing some fun things to include. HELP I'm the chair of this.. and since it over the summer that most of the planning will take place, I will probably be alone on this.