The caregivers in charge of daycare centres need certain information to be able to do their jobs properly. The safety of all the children depends on it, as does a good, open relationship between parents and educators.
Essential information
What do you communicate to early childhood educators? Some information is vital. Here’s what your child’s caregiver needs to know.
- His or her birth date. That way they can celebrate the birthday with a song or treat.
- Your contact information — including phone numbers for home and work — in case your child is ill or there’s an emergency.
- The names of the people authorized to pick him or her up and their relationship with the child. These people will have to present a valid photo ID on their first visit.
- Your child’s allergies and health conditions.
- Parental permission to administer treatment without a prescription.
- Whether your child has a problem that can affect his development.
- Any life changes that could affect a child’s mood or behaviour, including upcomingchanges at home. Some examples: Mom is pregnant, the dog ran away, you’re going through a separation or moving house, or an upcoming vacation.
- Whether your child is sick and is taking antibiotics or other prescription medications. This allows the caregivers to observe any potential side effects.
Useful information
Although optional, having some information about your family situation helps educators better understand your child. For example, it would be useful to clarify whether:
- The child lives with both parents
- The parents are separated
- The child has siblings (and their ages)
- The child lives with a guardian
- The child lives with a single parent
- The child has been adopted
- The child has experienced domestic violence
For the comfort and well-being of your child
In addition to knowing what to communicate to early childhood educators, you could also be asking yourself what equipment your child may need. Make sure you provide:
- An extra change of clothing that is clearly identified with your child’s name and is appropriate for the time of year
- An EpiPen if your child has allergies, or his pump and spacer if he has asthma
- A nasal saline solution if needed
- Sunscreen in the summer
- A baseball cap or sun hat during the summer
- A swimsuit for some summer fun
- Diapers and wipes if your child isn’t toilet trained
With this information you can go to work with peace of mind, knowing that your little darling is in good hands.
