THE BENEFITS OF PARTNERING WITH FAMILIES
“Families are realising
their potential as real
and valued members of,
and contributors to, their
child’s community.”
A ‘pay it forward’ program was
implemented, where current parents
were recruited to help with the
orientation of new families in their
home language. This was supported
by a ‘stay and play’ approach where
families were encouraged to catch-
up with one another outside of the
preschool program.
“Both programs have become key
components of the way we now
establish relationships with children
and families,” says Kathy.
The new welcome program has proven
highly successful in helping overcome
language barriers, increasing the
involvement of families within in the
centre’s program, and shaping
parents into local advocates for
the preschool’s work and KU’s
inclusive approach to early childhood
education. And the new approach is
certainly attracting much praise. In
2018, Director Kathy Hatcher was
7
the recipient of a prestigious ASG
National Excellence in Teaching
Award. Additionally, the preschool
was a finalist in the HESTA Early
Childhood Education & Care Awards
and the team were awarded the 2018
Making ‘the KU Difference’ through
Innovation award.
Kathy explains that engagement
with families in this way has changed
the culture of the preschool, and the
practice of educators in recognising
and supporting authentic connection
with a child’s home environment.
“Perhaps most importantly, our families
are realising their potential as real and
valued members of, and contributors
to, their child’s community.”
KU
20
18