[Erica]

• Sharing observation data with a child’s family can be painful and intimidating. Often you are the first person to acknowledge atypical development about a child. Families may or may not have noticed that anything is different. Often they become defensive and sensitive, making it difficult. Working with a co-worker to script your discussion is a good way to start.
• Good documentation of your observations and knowledge of typical child development will help you to share the information objectively. With observations based on Developmental Guidelines, you can confidently share your collected data with parents knowing that it is based on evidence, not opinion.
• Knowing the local resources for referral is essential to help families understand what their next steps are. Have a list of local resources available so you will be able to connect families with additional information or help. It is always a good idea to call the resources in your area and establish a personal contact and positive relationship. You can then refer families with confidence that they will be in good care.
• As discussed earlier, it is essential as a professional in this field to keep all observations and referrals confidential. Information about your observations should only be shared with the child’s family, approved co-teachers and/or director. You must maintain confidentiality between the program and the child’s family regarding each child’s observation and assessment. Make sure you know where confidential observation records are kept, or create a private place to keep all observation data on children.

[Jenny Brown]

Share observation data with a child’s family. Work with a co-worker to script your discussion.

Good documentation of your observations and knowledge of typical child development will help you to share the information objectively.

Knowing the local resources for referral is essential to help families understand what their next steps are.

[Irene Brewster]

To approach about developmental screening of their child, it may help to come up with and practice a script with a co-worker. One should have a list of observations of the child for examples and explanation of concern.

[Kierra Jenkins]

• Sharing observation data with a child’s family can be hard or intimidating. Often you are the first person to acknowledge atypical development about a child. Families may or may not have noticed that anything is different. Often they become defensive and sensitive, making it difficult. Working with a co-worker to script your discussion is a good way to start. Good documentation of your observations and knowledge of typical child development will help you to share the information objectively. With observations based on Developmental Guidelines, you can confidently share your collected data with parents knowing that it is based on evidence, not opinion. Knowing the local resources for referral is essential to help families understand what their next steps are. Have a list of local resources available so you will be able to connect families with additional information or help. It is always a good idea to call the resources in your area and establish a personal contact and positive relationship. You can then refer families with confidence that they will be in good care.

[Cheree]

All way start with a positive statement about the child then you can talk about your observations then I would end conversation with another positive statement about their child and make sure that I had information on other topics if child needed help with anything?

[Jazmin]

In my opinion, pertaining to me personally this is very basic knowledge and I would not find this difficult to approach… If I suspected any type of concern about a child’s development in my class. I would document and track every single concern and any bit of evidence. I would have a nice graph of things that surely need to be addressed, before I considering addressing to a parent. I would certainly communicate with my team before hand. We could develop a good method of relaying all information to a primary provider. I strongly believe that a negative reaction from a parent is completely normal when it comes to addressing a possible psychological issue with their child. However, a complete shut down wall to the subject from a parent would be very concerning. If a situation like that occurs, there is little that you can do, especially after thoroughly addressing your concern, and following through with referrals. Our job is to notice the struggles and high points of the children in our care. We need to make sure we are doing our best to show up for them in the areas they need it most!

[Alena]

I think that a conversation with parents can only be in the case of a preliminary complete analysis of the development, behavior, and skills of the child. If a child has developmental delays, then a conversation with the parents should take place as early as possible. Some problems, such as autism spectrum disorder, are very well corrected when diagnosed early. Therefore, it is important for parents to explain this – that the solution to the problem is real.

[Michelle Farmer]

Have prepared documentation about you observations and approach the family with with your concerns and have some resources to help the family to address any concerns.

[Tamara Dykstra]

This a very sensitive discussion to have with families. I would have a professionally prepared written script but I would over it with other learning staff before meeting with the families. I would also have sit down meeting with my directors at learning center about my findings, what I am going to discuss with the child’s family and get their inputs. See if they have any suggestions or concerns. I would have my director sit in with me on the day of the meeting for extra support.

,

[Jennifer Marcial]

A good way to start would be to make and document observations. Then go over how to dress the parent with a coworker and make sure that you are sensitive and can back up your information and observations with knowledge not just opinion. It is good to have resources on hand.

[Avery Hanneman]

I think it is good to carefully think about wording and talk to your center director for support. you may want to set up a meeting after children are all picked up and meet with center director in their office to address concerns.

[Gabrielle Ogilvie]

To approach a parent about developmental screening, you can start by expressing your genuine care and concern for their child’s well-being. You can mention that developmental screening is a valuable tool to ensure their child is reaching important milestones and receiving the support they may need. Emphasize that it’s a routine part of early childhood care and that the results can help inform and guide their child’s development.

[Hafso Egal]

When approaching a parent about the developmental screening of their child, I find it helpful to begin the conversation with empathy and a clear explanation of the purpose and benefits of the screening. I assure them that it’s a routine process aimed at ensuring their child’s optimal development and well-being. I offer to answer any questions or address any concerns they may have, emphasizing that their input is valued and essential in understanding their child’s growth. I also share information about the confidentiality of the screening results and how they will be used to provide tailored support if needed. Building trust and open communication is key, and I make it clear that we are partners in promoting their child’s development and success.

[Marissa]

I think a good way to approach my peer is ” Hello! How was your day? well I wanted to let you know about your child’s day! they had an amazing time during art but I noticed that they are struggling with painting and grasping onto the brush, I was able to do hand over hand to direct them but I wanted to update you on some things about their development!”

[Shely]

Documenting observations and comparing them to milestones.