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Because we place a high value on the primary bond between children and their parents, we strive to understand and respect the values and goals of each family. We want to ensure that there are a variety of ways for parents to participate and be involved. We welcome families to come to the Center anytime during the day. The staff thoroughly enjoys spending time with parents and extended family members in the classroom. Families can join us to share in curriculum activities or just drop in to relax and enjoy being with the children. In addition, each year a Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) is organized. Parents use PAC meetings to discuss program policies and the children's curriculum. They receive information about campus and community resources and organize social events for families and staff. The group works in collaboration to plan activities that build a sense of community. The PAC also organizes fund-raising projects so special events to benefit children and families can be offered each year. A monthly series of parenting seminars are also planned on topics parents identify as relevant, such as: discipline, nutrition, sibling rivalry, language and literacy, etc. A weekly parent support group, facilitated by a counselor from CSM’s Psychological Services, is offered to provide parents with an on-going opportunity to discuss parenting issues and receive support from one another in a group setting.
The Child Development Center also houses a Family Lending Library that includes resource materials on parenting and as well as a comprehensive array of quality books for children to check out and take home to share with their families.
As a first step to building a partnership between families and staff an orientation conference is scheduled before each child begins. The conference provides an opportunity for parents and staff to exchange important information about children’s needs and to discuss the program’s role in supporting both the child and the family. Children and families visit and spend time in the classrooms prior to starting in order to facilitate the adjustment process. In addition, several times during the year parents and teachers meet to discuss each child’s growth and development. Planning a classroom curriculum that truly benefits the individual child means parents and teachers work as partners to identify each child’s strengths and interests and use that information to develop the program.
We understand the tremendous rewards and unique challenges you face as you balance parenting and family obligations with college courses, studying and work. We are committed to supporting you and your child during the preschool years and we look forward to sharing in your exciting journey. |
