Building relationships with families helps us understand an infant or toddler’s environment and experience of the world. It is within the family that the infant or toddler learns how to approach people and situations, as well as how to self-regulate and interact with others.

There are many ways to communicate and build relationships with families, such as through sending newsletters and posting notices to having personal conversation during hellos and goodbyes. Face-to-face communication is one of the best ways to form and build relationships with families. Face-to-face communication involves listening, speaking, and body language. The way you begin conversations and communicate with families can enhance a relationship or build a barrier.

Take time to practice your communication with families and consider different ways you can start conversations with each family you support. Below is an example:

Family of an Infant or Toddler In My Care Conversation Starter Time of Day or Routine
The Brown Family – Jessica
Jessica had a lot of energy today! She went up and down the slide while we were outdoors and after nap she spent most of her time dancing to music while shaking musical instruments.
Afternoon – hello’s and good-bye’s