Enhancing parent-teacher relationship in childcare settings

Positive parent-teacher relationshio in childcare setting lays foundation for children's learning and development. Here are some ideas that may be useful for early childhood teachers to enhance the collaborative partnership.

1. Respecting parents expectations.
2. Respecting parents' diverse cultural backgrounds.
3. Recognizing parents' strengths.
4. Open communication.
5. Being professional.

How to choose a childcare service

Many parents ask a question about how to choose an appropriate childcare service for their children. Generally speaking, parents of young children should have a pre-enrollment visit before they make a decision. Here are some tips that may help you.

Taking some time to visit several centres (2 to 3) in the area where you want to your children attend. During the visit, you should observe the centres physical environment including outdoor equipment, space. Good facilities and natural environment with big space are good for young children's physical and emotional development.

Observing the teachers/staff practices. Do they interact with children? Do they work as a team? Are they friendly?

It is better to take your child/children with you when you visit a centre. Spending some time in the centre and observe your child/children's engagement with the environment. Asking your child/children whether he/she likes there.