Early Childhood Education

Course Components

Partnerships with Family/Whanau

This module introduces the students to theories of communication. Elements of the communication process theory are identified; each element’s function, barriers and possible solutions are discussed in the context of an ever-growing multicultural ECE environment. The students are then to analyse specific situations, demonstrating their ability to apply theory in the practical world at the ECE centers.

On having an understanding of the principles of communication as a foundation, the students then move on to explore specifically the principles of a partnership with parents, family, and whanau in an early childhood setting. They are to refer to current articles relating to ECE which demonstrates knowledge of principles of a partnership with parents, family, and whanau in an early childhood setting, consult with parents, family, and whanau to develop a partnership in an early childhood setting, and maintain partnership with parents, family, and whanau in an early childhood setting.

In addition, they are to specifically discuss the practical issues involved when facilitating effective partnerships with families and whanau in the day-to-day relationships with parents. This include the skills needed to work collaboratively  toward consensual agreements with parents, family and whanau on issues like enrolment, specific early childhood education and care requirements for the young child which meet family needs, service philosophy and practices, and statutory requirements.

Students also examine, and while on practicum, monitor and review settling in process for child, parents, family, and whanau during initial stages of the education and care arrangements. Finally, they are to be able to explain young children's, parents', family, and whanau rights as a consumer of early childhood education and care. They will be provided with opportunities to explore service obligations to parents, family, and whanau in relationship to service charter, philosophy, policies, and practices.

With reference to an early childhood centre of their choice, students are to describe how the service upholds and values identified expectations, and consumer rights of parents, family, and whanau.  This is to improve outcomes for the child, parents, family, and whanau.