Post by Aileen on Jan 10, 2017 20:43:17 GMT -8
I think as childcare professionals, a good way to start getting to know the child's families (and what they value) is to say something positive about the child to the parent or the person who is picking them up. Some comments might be hit or miss, but hopefully it helps the family feel connected to what their child is doing and how they are progressing. When I was a staff member at summer camp, we were encouraged to talk to the parents at check in and ask them basic questions (examples: has your child been away at camp for this long? how did you find out about this camp? what made you interested in sending them to camp?) and then try to reconnect with them at the ending ceremony (examples: your child was really adjusting well for their first time! they really progressed a lot in two weeks. it was a pleasure to see your child every day because they always had a funny joke.). I think I would continue that practice and after a while, maybe progress to suggestions like "I heard about an exhibit at the children's museum that your child might be interested in" or "I noticed your child loves this character, and a new book or movie is coming out featuring that character."