Nursery World - A Unique Child: Inclusion - A-Z of inclusive practice P is for Parents

Mary Dickins is an early years consultant (All Together Consultancy/London Met. University)

"Inclusion is a process of identifying, understanding and breaking down barriers to participation and belonging".

Early Childhood Forum (2003)

It is widely accepted that parents are children's first and most enduring educators. There is a wealth of research evidence to suggest that all children do better when there is a close working relationship between home and setting, information about children's learning and development is shared and parents are encouraged to take part in the life of the child's early years provision.

To understand the value of early years staff working with parents, it is important to look at the potential benefits for the children and the staff educating and caring for them. It is crucial for every child's sense of well-being and self-esteem that their parents and carers are accepted and valued by practitioners. Research has shown that a child's sense of identity and confidence is reinforced if staff and parents work as partners.

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