Your child will thrive if you have a good relationship with their carer

By Emma McCormick, manager, Little Luvs nursery

Last updated 16:15, Monday, 26 May 2008

You may find that you have found your dream childcare, whether it be a nursery, nanny or childminder, and you can go back to work happy and content. The hard bit is done, isn’t it?

No, this is just the beginning. Your child carers also have expectations of you which they want you to step up to.

Whilst they keep your child safe, secure and happy, you must agree not to take advantage.

It is important you develop a good relationship with your child carer for the well being of your little one.

Here are some examples:

Your child carers will expect you to collect your child on time (emergencies happen but you still need to tell staff what has happened).
Bring in all necessary paperwork.
Read newsletters and notices.
Bring up any problems with the key people.
Report any illnesses.
Make sure you pre-book any additional sessions.
Pay your fees on time.
Give notice for holidays.
Make sure you take in all items your child may need for the day.
Attend parents’ evenings.
Let staff know if you will be collecting your child early or late.
Always be contactable.

It sounds like a lot, but it’s all important in maintaining a good relationship with the care givers.

They are usually very flexible and will do their best to help but they don’t want to be taken for granted. Many a time I have been left with an uncollected child, no explanation and unable to contact their parent.

These are mainly practical things to think about but it may be daunting if this is your first experience of childcare.

Most importantly, working together, parents and childcarers can give a child a sense of belonging and enable them to feel love and trust in their environments.

Because very young children are not able to fully communicate their needs and wants, it takes a skilled adult who knows the child well to pick up cues and respond to their signals.

Caregivers should be sensitive to the combination of individual development and characteristics each child displays. This attention develops self confidence.

Good caregivers know that children’s learning is as much informal as formal; they should see everyday routines as opportunities for developing children language and development.

They should also have a strong knowledge of child development and recognise their role in ensuring children feel a sense of belonging.

Whilst some parents may feel uneasy when their baby or young child has such a close relationship with their carer that they cling to them when you arrive to take them home, these bonds are important in learning and development.

Parents can help strengthen the bond between child and caregiver by talking about the caregiver at home and showing interest in interactions between them and your child.

Other considerations to help strengthen the relationship are:

Where caregivers have small groups of children.
Where there is a primary caregiver this promotes consistency and security.
Low staff turnover is a good sign of a happy team. It can help reduce anxiety over changing staff faces and styles.

Being an active parent helps your child get the most from their childcare.

You should feel happy with the people caring for your little one. You have every right to question or query things, and a good caregiver would be happy and confident in you doing so.