ERIC Number: EJ762268
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007-Mar
Pages: 2
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1070-1214
EISSN: N/A
Between Teacher & Parent
Brodkin, Adele M.
Early Childhood Today (J1), v21 n5 p14-15 Mar 2007
In this article, the author discusses how a new afterschool arrangement is upsetting a 4-year-old child named Mackenzie. Her babysitter left last week, just as her mom started a new job with longer hours. She is missing her former caregiver and mom a lot. Based on the stories from her teacher and her father, the author gives her assessment of Mackenzie's situation. Although the childcare setting seems fine, it will take her some time to get used to it. She may also be bewildered because family childcare is not school, and not the same as being at home either. Mackenzie needs the patience and understanding of all the adults in her life. Keeping the lines of communication open among all of the adults is crucial. With the parents' permission, not only should the parents and teacher be in communication, but also the teacher and new caregiver. An ongoing dialogue between all of those who care for Mackenzie will make it easier to help her feel at home. The transition to an afterschool care program would be easier if each parent spent a few afternoons there with Mackenzie. They might encourage her to bring a favorite toy or some special snacks that she really likes. Of course, this could be difficult with the mother's new job, but the special effort will be worth it.
Descriptors: Caregivers, Parent Teacher Cooperation, Young Children, Child Care, Anxiety, Emotional Response, Teacher Role, Parent Role
Scholastic. 557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012. Tel: 800-560-6816; e-mail: ect@scholastic.com; Web site: http://teacher.scholastic.com/products/ect/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A