Checking in with families and providing them with "at home" tips is always a good idea. Copy and paste the note below into a document and share it with parents and caregivers!
Sending home this note or a similar one from time to time is a simple and easy way to connect with families and extend curriculum to home!
Dear Families,
At Family Child Care we always try to provide children with words to help them understand and express their feelings. This helps to let children know that we are aware of their feelings and care about them. It also provides them with words and language that they will need to express themselves as they develop and grow.
Even the youngest infants are listening and starting to absorb language.It is never too early to start!Try to put your infant’s feelings into words. Talk with your infant about the feelings he seems to be expressing.
Here are some examples of what you might say:
- Your child starts to cry when you accidentally drop a pan on the floor: “That loud noise scared you. Let me hold you for a little while.”
- Your child kicks her legs when you walk into her room as she is waking from a nap: “You are happy and excited. I think you are ready to play”
- Your child smiles and coos as you sing with him: “You’re so happy when I sing with you. Are you trying to sing with me?”
- After you change her wet diaper: “That dry diaper feels good doesn't it?”
- Your child begins to cry for no apparent reason: “You’re unhappy. Let’s see if we can find out what the problem is.”
- Your child starts to cry as you leave the room: “You’re sad because I’m leaving. I love you too and will be back to get you.”
Do not deny or trivialize your child’s feelings. Let them know that it is alright to express their feelings, that someone will comfort and care for them. Your baby will learn to comfort themselves.
Ideas from Arkansas Frameworks for Infant and Toddler Care.
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