Parent communication is very important. It Helps families understand what
happens here at child care and it helps the provider understand how they can meet the individual needs of the child.
We utilize a few very important tools in communicating with parents:
1. Informal parent meeting. On a daily basis I will touch base with parents and family on drop off and pick up times
asking how your child is feeling, telling you about some of the things that happen during the day. It's a very short
communication, but lets families know I care.
It is very important that conversation during drop-off and pick-up time pertains
to your child or will contribute to the care of your child. Discussion about serious issues (divorce, family problems or any
other topic that distracts me from children for a prolonged period- over 5 minutes- should be addressed after hours over the
phone or in a conference without your child (ren).
LITTLE EARS HEAR AND UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING GOING ON AROUND THEM. Discussion
that focuses on your child's day, and light, brief conversation is best.
2. Parent Board. Located
in the hall, just before the kitchen, the Parent board has information for Lisensing as well as Parents. Emergency Evacuation
Plan, Earthquake Preparedness Checklist, Daily Schedule, Provider Holiday List, etc.
This information usually stays up for a while.
3. Weekly Report. Parents will receive a report every Friday noting activities, observations and rest times
for each day of the week. We rotate between 3 weekly menus which parents can use to see what their children
ate during the day. Copies of the menus are sent home on a regular basis.
4. Scheduled
Parent Conference. When there is an issue that a parent or
myself sees as important (behavior issue, or any other policy issue). A Scheduled Parent Conference is recommended. I can
meet with families after I close (6pm), however, I recommend that you find alterntive care for your child as I will be occupied
with your concern.
5. Phone Conference.
During business hours I am not always availble to phone conference.
Parents may try at rest times (12:45-2:30). The best time is after 6pm.
6. Seasonal Newsletter. I will issue 4 newsletters per year (one for each season). They offer parenting
tips, website links, happenings at the playhouse, and policy reminders/issues of concern.
