[Roseli Santos]

I would use language that doesn’t place blame or any feelings of shame to go into the conversation because people are sensitive, and they have a right to be. I would also have my observations and documentation ready to go.

[Brenna]

I think being gentle and honest goes along way, and having documentation of issues/concerns helps too!

[Awo Mah]

Coming from great intentions helps and being kind and honest, you are both looking forwards to seeing this children’s growth and the parents can sense that.

[abby kolbeck]

How to approach a parent about developmental screening of their child?

Involve them in the conversation first, assuring them that this is a normal thing we do in general to make sure their child can grow and succeed to their highest potential. Talking in sensitive terms for instance: “each child has different learning styles and stages, reguardless of age etc.”

[Sailaja]

• Working with a co-worker to script my discussion.
• By sharing the documentation of my observations and knowledge of typical child development to let the parents know that the advise is only objective based on evidence and not opinion based.
• Having a list of local resources available so that I will be able to connect families with additional information or help. I will also call the resources in my area and establish a personal contact and positive relationship. So that, I can refer families with confidence that they will be in good care.
• Also by maintaining the confidentiality.

[Veronica]

You should think of what you’re going to say ahead of time and potentially write down points you want to remember to bring up. You should be specific and bring up evidence what you are saying about the child and their development.

[Molly Carden]

Go over what you would like to say with a coworker first. Approach the family with the information and data you’ve collected, objective observations, and resources for a referral or just more information to help them better serve their child’s needs.

[Kenya Abney]

I liked the idea of having a script to practice with a coworker and perhaps get their feedback on. I also think its important to bring the WA developmental milestones guidelines info to directly reference so the parents know i am basing my concerns on facts and not just opinion. It is also important to be objective and non-judgmental as well as supportive and empathetic, as parents may be scared, angry, or defensive. I would assure parents that nothing is WRONG with their child, their child is wonderful, and i cannot diagnose their child, but that i care for the child and want whats best for them, just as they do, and some additional resources might help their child. I would also have all information about intervention resources as well as screening resources on hand.

[Rey Fairburn]

As a neurodivergent person, I feel like I could offer a unique voice in this kind of discussion with parents. If I’ve noticed some developmental signs that a child may also be neurodivergent, I can use that conversation to not only inform the parents about their own child, but if they get upset or worry for what it means for their child I can gently disclose my own neurodivergence and reassure them that their child is still a wonderful person and can still have a happy and fulfilled life, and point them towards resources available in the community. I would also like to have a director involved in the discussion, since it is a conversation that can be hard for some parents to hear.

[Chadley Baker Hunter]

I would say being prepared with data to back up your findings would be crucial. I also would be prepared to explain to parents what development processes we expect at a certain age, and what it means that their child is not exhibiting those same abilities. I would be prepared to support parents by addressing what I am doing in the class to help that child develop those abilities and what they can do at home to aid in their child’s development.

[Erin Traini]

Good ways to approach parents about their child’s developmental screening can include:

• Scripting the conversation with a coworker
• Be objective with your statements, but not cold
• Be mindful of cultural differences
• Offer support for however they choose to deal with this information

[jillienne greenfield]

Allowing yourself to go over your “script” with another co-worker will provide you with how to approach the situation as well as give you a better understanding of if your phrases sound well. This a great practice for you and another party.

[Halle]

Start the conversation from a place of curiosity and gentleness. Begin the conversation by asking questions and then from a place of care give feedback on what you are observing and ways to move forward. Also discuss how you will help the child and how the parents can too.

[Jennifer]

Prepare yourself for the discussion by going over a script of what to say with a coworker. Provide the family with documentation of your observations, and then with a referral to seek additional resources.

[Emiline]

What are some good ways to approach a parent about developmental screening of their child?

This can always be a hard topic to talk with parents too, it is their child and knowing something may be delayed can be scary to hear. I loved how a lot of people say to write a script and practice with a coworker. It is always good to practice and also get another professionals opinion. I also think it is important to have the observations ready and explain to them that it is what you and other teachers have observed, not just what you think. Always start the conversation on a good point, talk about how their day went and how great they are doing. Then add in what you have been observing. Being supportive is always key!