Discussion, Active Participation and Success

Discussion

Informal and formal discussions are the life of our nurseries. It is a meeting place where discussions and ideas are exchanged between families, staff and children. Families are asked to share information with staff to jointly discuss and determine their child’s developmental progress.

This environment supports us to collectively deepen our knowledge of care and education. Families and staff are encouraged to design and attend appropriate workshops relating to their interest in fields such as nutrition, behaviour management, child health etc.

Time and the ability to listen is valued and set aside by the nursery for families to talk with children, with staff and other families. This open dialogue between the nursery and family is crucial in understanding family culture and therefore the nursery's ability to support each family's holistic needs. Families are encouraged to provide information pertinent to the social and cultural interests of the nursery community.

Active Participation

The nursery's expectation of a family's participation is dependent on their family life and other professional and personal commitments.

Active participation is a shared responsibility between the nursery and the family. Relationships develop between the nursery and family prior to and during their first days of settling. Families are encouraged to support the nursery in developing an ‘image’ of their child. This image is reflected by information gathered through meetings, photographs and other stimulus.

Families must recognise they are contributors to nursery services as well as receivers. We welcome families to join as well as support staff in organising programs (e.g. yoga, ante-natal and aromatherapy).

Celebrations are held throughout the year to develop pride and enthusiasm within the nursery and to heighten the uniqueness of the relationships which exist. Families are actively encouraged to participate to the annual summer fete, nursery outings, festivals, open days, fund raising events etc.

The Parent Nursery Association (PNA) provides a strong link between families and staff to exchange ideas and comments. With dedicated support this forum enhances the evolution of nursery ideas. 

Success

Each child is regarded as competent and successful, with the power to shape the process and outcomes of their decisions. They have the ability to influence their environment and view themselves as contributing members of society. 

To respect and value each child’s success we regularly ask families to talk with and facilitate their child’s current nursery projects and daily experiences.