Examined the concept of quality care from the perspectives of parents, child care workers and supervisors. Subjects rated 11 aspects of child care provision. Found both similarities and differences in perception of quality care from the three groups, with the largest differences having to do with administration, staff qualifications, staff-parent…

Tested the "buffer" hypothesis in caregiver-parent relationships, predicting that parents seek caregiver contact primarily in response to negative daycare situations. Parents' responses to vignettes revealed that parents reported most caregiver inclusions in negative daycare situations compared to other daycare or home situations. Parents…

Noting that child care arrangements are one of the most important decisions parents face, this videotape discusses characteristics to look for when evaluating a day care facility, either home-based or center-based. The 10-minute videotape suggests that parents' look for a facility in which the child will be both happy and safe, then outlines areas…

Five articles suggest ways to design welcoming, comforting, supporting, stimulating caregiving environments that are respectful to children and families: (1) "From Borders to Bridges: Transforming Our Relationships with Parents" (Ann Pelo); (2) "Supporting Multicultural, Multilingual Families" (Julie Garrett); (3) "Making Families Welcome" (Deadru…

Surveyed 264 child caregivers about center policies and caregiver experiences related to child abuse that may influence the caregiver-parent relationship. Summarizes implications for early childhood educators' efforts to help caregivers build an open and positive relationship with parents. (RJC)

Notes that quality child care is judged on a variety of levels, the most significant of which might be caregiver attributes. Discusses three such attributes: respect for and commitment to children, ability to relate to parents, and human relations skills. (JW)

The Foster Care Charter and the philosophy of the United Kingdom's National Foster Care Association are described. The philosophy distinguishes between "foster carers" and foster parents. (BC)

Describes infant and toddler biting behavior as related to developmental differences in exploring the environment, learning cause-effect relationships, and using power to elicit a response. Discusses ways to deal with biting at each level, how to support parents dealing with the behavior at home, and the importance of taking biting related to…

This article presents strategies for improving relationships between child caregivers and families. Strategies include creating family-friendly environments, focusing on the family during phone calls and center tours, supplementing enrollment forms with pages for family books, inviting family members to share stories of their childhood, rethinking…

Background: Many early intervention teams are shifting their service delivery for children with disabilities from a child-focused model to one that focuses on strengthening the competence and confidence of the child's caregivers (parents, childcare providers, preschool teachers). The use of coaching strategies in a primary coach model of service…

Offers practical advice for staff and families associated with integrated programs. Identifies potential sources of stress and discusses eight strategies toward successful inclusion involving systemic planning, suggested resources, and family participation. Suggests embedding intervention of individual goals and objectives in an activity-based…

Departures of child care staff often create an emotional climate that affects everyone. This article advises directors on communication strategies to inform parents of staff departures, including a case study on the well-handled departure of a staff worker who resigned without notice. A sample letter to parents is also provided. (EV)

Notes that the introduction of children of staff into programs can be problematic; offers suggestions for a smooth transition. Suggests that role distinctions should be clarified for staff-parent, staff-child and others to help all parties understand their particular responsibilities. An even application of center rules and open communication with…

Defines a high-maintenance parent as one requiring more from the child care organization than the average parent. Suggests six points for choosing response: take a positive nonjudgmental approach; see parent's view; focus on strengths; understand importance of communication and negotiation skills; be respectful; and respect boundaries of your own…

Discusses cultural differences in sleeping practices, focusing on how child caregivers can provide developmentally appropriate and culturally sensitive care. Describes co-sleeping as an accepted practice in many cultures with several benefits. Discusses the role of cultural values, beliefs, priorities, and goals and the importance of…