Parents as teachers

Parents are a child’s first and most important teacher. Caregivers must work with parents and families to foster a strong working relationship and develop a partnership based on trust. Research shows regular interaction and open communication between families and staff is crucial to quality childcare. Parents should walk their child in and out of class every day—no drop-off or pick-up. Volunteering, at least 30 hours a year, is strongly encouraged.

According to Reading Is Fundamental, a national literacy organization, it’s never too early to expose children to books. In fact, many experts will tell you, the sooner, the better. For babies, durable books made from cloth, vinyl and board are best. Parents should read aloud to their infant for a few minutes at a time. As he or she gets older, and develops the ability to listen, extend the time spent reading to them. Try to point to things in picture books and name them, and teach your children to do the same as they learn to talk.

Toddlers enjoy simple stories about everyday experiences they can relate to. Parents are encouraged to set aside a regularly scheduled time each day for reading. Story hours at the local bookstore or library are a great way to foster a love for books in children. Reciting nursery rhymes and singing songs also help children develop an ear for language.