Family Engagement
Family engagement can have various meanings for different people, and your thoughts may have related to a partnership between you, the program, and the parent. Family engagement means that both the program and family are involved in the child’s learning and development. There is also a connection to the community and the resources available. These partnerships are crucial to supporting the best outcomes for children and families.
When families feel supported, heard, and integral in their child’s early education program, they are more engaged. Research shows that when families are involved in this process, it supports better overall outcomes for children’s school readiness (Understanding Family Engagement Outcomes: Research to Practice Series, 2018). This partnership and engagement can lead to more supportive and open discussions with families regarding their child’s disability, family/classroom needs, resources, or connecting families with services in the community.