Family Engagement

Training to Go

Objectives

• Create a family-friendly environment • Send a clear message that family involvement is

welcome

• Actively reach out to the hard-to-reach families

Family Engagement

What does family engagement look like?

Sending a Welcoming Message

• What in our rooms or centers illustrate family involvement?

• Is it clear that all families are welcome?

• Do we embrace less “traditional” families?

Creating a Welcoming Environment for Families

• Create a sense of welcome, community, and connection among families

• Share information about program goals, needs, and accomplishments

• Recognize and celebrate families

Families as Resources

• How can families support and enrich the program?

• Which families can help with what?

• How can more families be utilized as resources?

Connecting with the Hardest to Reach

What keeps some families from being involved?

Building Bridges

• What strategies can help the program overcome barriers to family involvement?

• What has worked in the past?

Next Steps

• What ideas can be put into action soon?

• How can we gather more information about what type of opportunities program families need?