Page 1 - LESSION 18.pmd

Involvement of Parents and Community

18 Notes

INVOLVEMENT OF PARENTS

AND COMMUNITY

Learning and development are continuous through life, and especially in young
children. Development of young children takes place in different atmospheres
such as at home where they are surrounded by their parents, grandparents and
other family members. The formal, friendly atmosphere of the community, and
the first ladder of learning i.e. ECCE centre or preschool are also important
learning theatres for them. Whatever might be the settings, parents play a very
important role during these early years of children’s lives. A well-coordinated
quality partnership between the school and the parents and good communication
between both during ECCE and early primary years is very important.

"There is a notable consensus across the education policy statements and
practice guidelines in many countries that parents are children’s first and most
enduring educators." (source : OECD, 2012).We need to remember that young
children are dependent on their parents and families, and it is the family who
is the young child’s first educator. In fact, the mother is considered to be the
first teacher. Thus, parents have a lasting influence in the development of young
children’s thinking process, feelings, attitudes and ideas. A positive link must
be established between the preschool and the home. Quality partnership system
also provides support for expected learning outcomes by our young children
which in turn help in smooth transition from preschool to primary classes. In
short, supportive parents and understanding teachers can contribute to the
growth and development of children.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

After studying this lesson, you will be able to:
• explain the importance of parents and community involvement in ECCE
programme;

EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION 147