NAEYC Engaging Diverse Families Project
NAEYC Engaging Diverse Families ProjectBy Sarah Armstrong
OverviewProgram was developed toMeet the challenge of engaging
families in their childs early learning and
development.Goals:Develop research based definition of family
engagementIdentify exemplary family engagement practicesTo share
information with the early care and education Principle #1
Programs invite families to participate in decision making and
goals setting for their children.
How?Intake questionnairePrimary CaregiversParent-teacher
conferences
Principle #2
Teachers and programs engage families in two-way
communication.
How?Face-to-Face CommunicationOrientation eventsRegular
Parent-Teacher ConferencesUsually twice a yearHome visitsPhone
ConversationsConversations at drop-off and pickup times
Principle #3
Programs and teachers engage families in ways that are truly
reciprocal.
How?Gather InformationComplete getting-to-know-you formsFamily
surveysSocial EventsOpen housesFestivalsFamily fun nightsPotluck
meals
Family SurveysWhat should they include?Input on program-specific
practices and policiesAssess family needs and wantsFamily
expectations for their childs learningLearn if families take
advantage of opportunities it has availablePrinciple #3
continued
Provide InformationList of tasks, ideas, and opportunities to
participateStaff biographiesWebsitesBulletin BoardsStructured
Family ParticipationFamilies share their culture, skills, and
talents
Principle #4
Programs provide learning activities for the home and in the
community.
How?Childrens LearningHome ActivitiesAdult
EducationGEDEnglish-language classesParenting classesSocial
Services
Principle #5
How?Boards and CommitteesBoard of DirectorsFund Raisers
CommitteeBuilding Committee
Public Policy LevelAdvocacyVoter RegistrationPostcard
CampaignsPetitions
Programs invite families to participate in program-level
decisions and wider advocacy efforts. Principle #6Programs
implement a comprehensive program-level system of family
engagement. How?Effective LeadershipDiverse StaffAnti-bias
CurriculumProfessional Development
Professional Development
Training and Resources on the following topicsSupporting
families on immigration issuesListening and talking with
parentsCultural DiversityHelping parent cope with stressCreating
partnerships with familiesLearning a second language
ReferencesNAEYC-About the Engaging Diverse
Familieshttp://www.naeyc.org/familyengagement/about
