By Lauren Alexander

Introduction

As child care professionals, we understand that supporting child development is a combined effort between child care centers and families. Empowering parents with resources and support to continue their child’s development at home is helpful for their child’s growth. By providing parents with the tools and knowledge they need, we can create a seamless transition between the child care setting and home environment, making sure their learning stays consistent and strong.

Building a Strong Partnership

Start by creating a strong partnership with parents based on trust, respect, and open communication. Establishing a supportive relationship lays the foundation for effective teamwork in supporting their child’s development. Encourage parents to actively engage with their child’s learning experiences at the child care center and to communicate openly about their child’s progress, interests, and needs.

Sharing Educational Resources

Provide parents with access to educational resources that align with the curriculum and learning objectives of the child care center. This may include recommendations for age-appropriate books, websites, apps, or activities that parents can incorporate into their daily routines at home. For example, parents can have their child use counting or ABC apps to reinforce early math and literacy skills. They can introduce educational songs and rhymes that promote language development, such as singing the alphabet song or singing nursery rhymes together. Simple hands-on activities like sorting objects by color or shape, playing with blocks to encourage fine motor skills, or having sensory play items like rice or playdough can also support cognitive and sensory development. Encouraging outdoor exploration and nature walks can promote curiosity and an appreciation for the natural world, while cooking together provides opportunities for learning about measurements, following directions, and healthy eating habits. Encourage parents to explore these resources with their child and to engage in meaningful learning experiences together.

Offering Parent Education Workshops

Host workshops or informational sessions for parents on topics related to child development, parenting strategies, and supporting learning at home. These workshops can provide parents with valuable insights, practical tips, and strategies for boosting their child’s development. Consider inviting guest speakers, such as child development experts or educators, to share their expertise with these families.

Creating Home Extension Activities

Provide parents with home extension activities that build on the learning experiences their child receives at the child care center. These activities should be simple, hands-on, and easy to implement within the home environment. For instance, parents can create a DIY sensory bin using items like dried beans, rice, or cotton balls, providing opportunities for sensory stimulation. Another idea is to set up a scavenger hunt around the house or in the backyard, encouraging children to search for specific objects based on clues provided, which promotes problem-solving skills and spatial awareness. Additionally, parents can have their child do a few art activities like finger painting, collage-making, or simple crafts using recycled materials, supporting creativity and fine motor development. Setting up a cozy reading nook with a variety of age-appropriate books encourages a love for reading and language development. Encourage parents to integrate these activities into their daily routines and to tailor them to their child’s interests and developmental needs.

Encouraging Consistent Communication

Maintain consistent communication with parents through regular updates, newsletters, and parent-teacher conferences. Keep parents informed about their child’s progress, achievements, and any areas of concern. Provide opportunities for parents to ask questions, share feedback, and collaborate on strategies for supporting their child’s development.

Celebrating Parental Involvement

Celebrate and recognize parental involvement in their child’s development, whether it’s through attending workshops or classes, implementing home extension activities, or actively engaging in communication with the child care center. Show gratitude for their partnership in supporting their child’s growth and development. By celebrating parental involvement, we reinforce the importance of their role in supporting their child’s learning journey.