Implementing quality, effective practices in early childhood settings requires not only understanding of what these practices consist, but also the ability to recognize and assess their presence or ab

Cultivating Relationships and Family Partnerships

Environmental Assessment and Interview Form

Name and Type of Program:

Ages of Children Served:

Before you begin, thank the professional and provide a brief overview of your assignment.

Part 1: Observation

For each of the following factors, indicate supporting evidence in the right-hand column. If absent, please indicate. Add the two factors you have chosen at the bottom of the chart.

Note: It may be difficult to observe family involvement and partnership in the short amount of time you are observing in this setting. If you do not see any of the factors below, make a note to ask the teacher in your interview about whether they are a part of the program. Your interview should provide you with much more information to round out your view of the ways in which this program builds relationships and cultivates family partnerships.

Factor	Evidence
Children’s families are reflected in the classroom
Effective strategies for communication with families are utilized
There is collaboration between families and professionals
There is meaningful dialogue between families and professionals
Family diversity is respected/reflected in the environment
[The additional factor that you have chosen to observe]
[The additional factor that you have chosen to observe]

Part 2: Interview

Professional’s Role in Program:

Interview Questions:

How do you learn about individual families?
How is dialogue between staff and families encouraged?
What opportunities exist for family involvement? How are these opportunities tailored to family interests, strengths, needs, cultural backgrounds, and areas of expertise?
In what ways do you work to understand different families’ cultural expectations?
What policies specifically reflect a commitment to developing relationships and effective partnerships?
What strategies are used to communicate with families on an ongoing basis?
How are home-school relationships cultivated?

What partnerships exist between the program and community to support families?

Is there anything else you would like to share that would help me better understand the ways in which you build and value relationships and family partnerships?