A family’s relationship to their children’s center begins before a program choice is made. Evaluate your priorities, what you want from the center. There is a match to be made between the people you are as a family and the basic philosophy followed by the center. Are the values taught those most important to you, the curriculum content acceptable, is there process or product approach , do you want a Montessori, corporate or private program?
Once a program is chosen there are a few steps for success:
- Read all communications.
- Comment on positives.
- Discuss behavior management strategies and try to be as consistent between home/school as possible.
- Ask about negatives you observe. Go with your gut. If something doesn’t seem righ find out why. Don’t wait.
- Equip your child with user friendly clothing and lunchbox items. Boots, mittens, potty training attire, food/drink containers should be able to be used, age appropriately by your child.
- Maintain a conistent drop off/pick up schedule.
- DO NOT drop off during circle time.
- Community family changes to your caregivers.Even small changes can cause behavioral changes or a need for a bit more support at school.
- Occasionally bring in a useful classroom donation.
- Know the teachers names.
Childcaring is a community activity.For success, families and caregivers work together with a professional relationship built on trust, a shared goal for children and an understanding of the challenges that a developing child can present.
