Talking

In talking with parents about the progress being made by their child, be specific by giving examples of new achievements. (Ex.  “Jack and I have been working on holding his cup and drinking without spilling.  He did it all by himself three times today!”)

In talking with parents about developmental areas that need additional work, be specific.  Give examples of what the child is currently doing, what he needs to be doing according to the developmental milestone for his appropriate age, and what parents can do to help the child move forward.  (Ex.  Leroy is almost three years old and talks in two word sentences. “Me hungry.”)  As the child’s teacher, you should consider doing the following:

1. Ask the parents to take Leroy for a free assessment at The First Steps Program at the local health department.

2. As the teacher, spend time reading and talking to him in sentences with 5-8 words.  Encourage Leroy to repeat descriptive phrases you say during the day.

3. Encourage the family to spend time with Leroy playing word games such as Mr. Echo, where the parent demonstrates what an echo is and works with Leroy to get him to play along as the echo.  (Ex.  Parent says, “I want to eat a cookie.”  Then the child repeats the sentence.)  For several days every time the game is played, the parents will need to explain the echo game rules and play along with the child doing both parts – the non-echo and the echo parts.

4. Follow the suggestions provided to them by the First Step Assessment team.

Writing

Short, daily reports to parents on “What happened today” are very important.  This is a professional way to keep parents informed on daily habits such as:  the number of bowel movements and wet diapers, the type, quantity, and number of feedings, and any “firsts” that happened during the day such as rolling over for the first time.  Suggestions for parents as to what they could do at home should also be included.

A short introductory note for parents who are thinking about placing their child in your program is a professional way of sharing information.  The note should include:

1. Philosophy on how children learn and should be cared for and disciplined

2. Fee scale and when fees are to be paid: any policy on late payment

3. Hours of operation

4. Holidays and other days you will be closed

5. Policy on late pick-up

6. List of unit themes or topics the children will study

7. Ideas for parents to do at home to help their child learn colors, shapes, and words:  read books, tell stories, sing songs, visit stores and parks, and talk with them about what they see and do.

8. A newsletter is a way to keep parents connected with what is taking place during the month. 

Newsletters Can Include:

• Some easy nutritious recipes that parents and children can follow together at home or parents can make if their child is too young
  
  
• A listing of some concepts or learning objectives you covered during the month and a suggested activity that parents could do at home to support your work and the work of their child
  
  
• A listing of books that parents can get from the library.  Remember to include different books for different ages.

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