Notes

Five Tips To Build Strong Relationships With Families
Family engagement has a life-long influence on the lives of children . It comes in many forms. Teachers and professionals in afterschool or expanded education need to keep in mind that even though we might not see the entire family of a child at school or in a class, that does not mean they don't have a role in their child's lives. In this regard, we need to actively build strong engagement with families when they have the opportunity to go to the school or program.

It can be difficult in the midst of the demands of today's American family lifestyle, which is not limited to a variety of job and school obligations and a full-time extracurricular activities for all household members. It is crucial to realize that families are frequently overloaded and stressed. This will help us think of ways we can enhance our relationship with them when they drop off or pick up their child at your program. Here are five simple strategies that help to create strong connections in an ever-changing world.

When strengthening family relationships Be authentic
Staff members are taught how to build meaningful connections and pay attention to their body language. Parents are able to notice the attitudes of others, whether positive or negative. Simple strategies to promote healthy relationships is to make eye contact, always being polite to your partner and expressing your appreciation about the child's experiences in the school. Recognize the family's desire in having their child attend afterschool programs and let them know that you understand how busy life can be. Frequently the people who provide direct services at an afterschool program may be college students. It is vital to provide training to these young adults on how to build lasting relationships with their families.

Encourage parents to participate.
Remind parents that you are open to all and that you are always invited. Invite parents to come and participate in a sport or other skill with the students and their families.

Respect others.
If you invite parents to an outing, fair or training to a fair or training event, ensure it's worth their time. Be respectful of their time. Begin on time, and finish on time. Being aware of their busy lives and schedules, ensure that the event is engaging and relevant for them. Ensure your presenters are upbeat and able to connect with to your audience, and are energetic and energetic. Know your audience. Hire a presenter who knows the community and has the ability to communicate with parents.

Learn about the structure of families.
Although our society is more modern than ever, there are still biases against families who don't adhere to the conventional model. Human service professionals that families can come in many forms and styles. Based on their own experiences, some adults have difficulty to accept families with different traditions. Many families also feel this bias. The less focus you place on the degree to which a family appears different to you then the more you get to know and connect with the family and build relationships.

Break the down
As a facilitator of programs I've often encountered what I refer to as "breakdown remarks" towards families. See Our Website saw a staff member from the school comment, "Families only come because they are fed." My answer was always "I'm glad they're here because I want to sit down and eat together with them." Macroaggressions can be a serious issue that needs to be dealt with and should not be tolerated by the children and families that are provided with extended educational programs. Some people are completely unaware they're breaking someone's bones. Talk openly and honestly with your staff about macroaggressions. Your staff should be trained to recognize macro-aggressions when they see them and on methods for eliminating them.

Making positive connections with the families of children in our care is extremely satisfying. Below are some resources to aid you in creating these connections that are meaningful, increasing parental engagement in afterschool activities and raising awareness of macroaggressions.
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