Partnership with Parents Policy
“Parents are the first educators of their children and should be involved at all stages in their education and development”. Statement of Intent Recognises the importance of working in partnership with parents/carers to promote the best interests of children and that parents play a key role in the education of their children. The Centre will work in partnership with and support parents in this role.
Policy & Procedures Our Centre recognises the importance of working with parents. We have an “open door” policy where families are always welcome, but where the needs of all the children in our care are always the first priority. Staff are encouraged to always welcome the child and the parent on the child’s arrival, speak directly with the child’s parent regarding the night before and on departure about the day they had at Centre. All information received should be passed onto the Childs key worker. We work alongside the family to ensure what’s best for their child with regards their development in all areas. We encourage shared decisions on stages of developments, e.g. moving onto next programme, toilet training etc.
Family beliefs, customs, language and culture are always respected and encouraged. Our Centres will adapt the following procedures:
● Ensure parents/carers are given regular information about their Childs progress through informal and formal communication.
● Welcome the contribution of parents/carers and consult with parents/carers on a regular basis
● Opening hours will reflect the needs of working and young parents. Opening hours will be reviewed from time-to-time. ● Have meetings at times and in venues which are accessible and appropriate for all. ● Have a complaints policy. Partnership with Parents
● Ensure that all parents/carers are informed about meetings and any other activities being organised by the Centre.
● Encourage parents/carers to be actively involved in the Centre.
● Inform parents/carers of the procedures for registering comments or complaints.
● Encourage parents/carers to contribute their own skills, knowledge and interests through curriculum activities in the Centre.
● Provide parents/carers with regular updated information by way of email or Little Vista app.
● Parents/carers will sign a Parental Agreement at registration. Parents can contribute to our Centres in many different ways. It is up to you to ask for parental involvement either directly or indirectly through the Manager.
● From time to time we may ask parents to help out with outing
● They can take part and support the several fund-raising events we have throughout the year.
● They can come in and discuss their hobbies/work/school with the children.
● In general, parents can contribute in any way that will benefit the children attending the Centre.
Meeting with Parents
One-to-one meetings with the parents will be set up should staff need to discuss a child’s development or behavioural difficulties that they may be experiencing i.e. biting, hurting other children, soiling, cursing, etc. Meetings should be arranged as soon as possible when it is most convenient for both the staff member and the parent either when the parent has dropped off their child or just before they collect their child. Otherwise, the parent can request a time and date that suits them and will be accommodated if possible. Meetings should not be put on hold by a parent if there is a problem that needs to be resolved. During those meeting, minutes will be kept and both parents and staff should work together to resolve any issues. Here at Glor Na NÓg the staff will ensure the child’s needs are always prioritised.
This policy will be communicated to all parents, guardians and school aged children.
Contact Information If you require further information regarding this policy contact: Name Lorraine Casey, Business Manager
Phone number 094 93 70833
Email; glornanog@gmail.com
Date this policy was created Sept 2008
Date the policy is reviewed March 2025
Date this policy will be reviewed March 2026ple