Family Engagement

The first meaningful relationship a child forms is with their family. That is why Early Childhood Education and Child Development strongly focuses on engaging families in their child’s development. Families that are involved in their child’s learning improve their child’s cognition, language, and social-emotional development. Families help improve the quality of care their child receive. However, children are not the only ones that benefit. Families also benefit from partaking in their child’s development. One of the many difficulties families face are feeling helpless and lacking support. Educators and staff offer comfort and support. Families and educators, as well as staff members, can exchange information to help meet the child’s needs. Children thrive when they have both caregivers and families working cohesively. Families become more engaged with their children’s care and early education in several ways.

A key element in any relationship is communication. Families should communicate needs or concerns they have regarding their child’s care. At Totally Kids, the staff benefits from hearing your requests or concerns. Through our Early Intervention Program, families work with the Early Intervention Coordinator to create activities for their child. Perhaps the child has tried flan and barbecue baked beans at home, and the family would like their child to try those same foods at Totally Kids; working with the Early Intervention Coordinator a family could help create a menu for their child to include those foods. 

Throughout the year, Totally Kids, organizes various events and activities for residents and their family. These events offer a variety of opportunities for families to engage and participate with their child. One such way is Family Movie Day. Family Movie Day is a wonderful event that provides families time to spend with their child, an opportunity to get to know other families, watch a movie and, of course, eat popcorn. During the summer time, the Child Development Department sets up water play days. On this day several pools are set up for residents to play with water and enjoy the sun. One of busiest times of the year are the holidays. During the holidays families celebrate with their child at the pumpkin patch,  the annual Harvest Party, and Christmas Party.

There are many opportunities throughout the year for families to engage in their child’s development. Here at Totally Kids the focus is for residents to benefit from activities and events, but to also ensure quality family time as well.