[Brooke]

Which WAC’s address diversity and collaboration with families?

-WAC 110-300-0160 (Promoting acceptance of diversity), WAC 110-300-0085 (Family partnerships and communication), WAC 110-300-0320 (Facilitating child interests, learning, perspective, and productivity) and WAC 110-300-0325 (Creating a climate for healthy child development).

What big messages do the WAC’s give regarding diversity and collaboration?

-One important message from the WAC’s regarding diversity and collaboration was to familiarize yourself with each family during the enrollment period and communicate with the family on a regular basis once the child is enrolled. As providers/teachers it is our job to ask questions about their interests, background, routines, development, communication styles, schedules and get to know their lifestyle so you can better support the child and family. Another important message is to provide culturally and racially diverse learning opportunities in our everyday curriculum, activities and materials that represent all children and families with diverse dolls, books, pictures, games, music and materials. The important message is to create a welcoming, happy environment where anyone can feel welcome, comfortable and safe.

[Brooke]

1.) I discovered that the WAC policies are very detailed and thought out. There is a policy for so many different situations that could occur in a childcare center and these policies will keep everyone safe, healthy and thriving.

2.) The WACs policies that surprised me most were the one addressing animals in the center, water testing, lead and arsenic testing, TB test requirement and many more. Many of these things had never crossed my mind as something I would need to complete as a Daycare provider but it makes complete sense once you understand why you must complete these items and follow these policies.

3.) I can definitely see how the WACs will influence my day-to-day practice in caring for children because I know that there are specific guidelines/policies I must follow to keep the children safe, healthy and happy. There is no guessing if I’m doing things right or wrong because I have learned so much information and safety practices/rules from the WAC that better prepare me and make me a more confident provider.