[mkazimer]

Families are primary educators of their children because their core beliefs and understandings of the world are constructed in the home setting from birth up until the point that they enter an alternative childcare setting. Most of child’s learning is through observation of their family. They learn the foundations of language, social norms, emotional expression, eating habits and exercise habits.

 

How can childcare providers support families in this role?

Childcare providers should provide feedback to parents about their child’s milestones and any developmental concerns. It is important to keep communication about the child’s social, emotional, physical and intellectual progress as they grow and explore in your classroom as well as at home. An educator should provide the families with documented progress such as art work or pictures of a child’s activities. An educator should also discuss with parents what the child is interested in at home and how they interact in their home community so that both parties are aware of special interests and any extra support needed.

 

Why is supporting families so important?

Supporting families is important because it is family that with raise the child beyond the classroom. After the student moves up through the grades the family is the one that is going to be there supporting the child. It is important to support the family at each stage so that everyone involved in raising the child, including the child, is able to have a say in the process and can voice concern if there is any. It is also important to foster a positive learning environment so that the child’s attitude about learning is not sullied by negative experiences or lacking support systems.