Positive Relationships: All in a day's work - parents as partners

Sensing parents were unsure of their role, one of our teachers gave short presentations at recent events. She explained the four EYFS Themes and what parents could do to help us develop their child under each principle.

Through these discussions we realised we weren't using WOW stickers correctly. There was a misconception that they were for milestone achievements rather than a link between what children were doing and enjoying at home, culture and interests that could be transposed to the nursery setting. Simply explaining the sort of information we were interested in has renewed enthusiasm for WOW stickers.

We explained we'd like parents to feel they have a presence at nursery. How to achieve this in conjunction with work commitments can be difficult. One mum admitted, 'It's easy to think that once you've dropped your child off you can forget them and concentrate on work; after all, that's what nursery's there for.' This is flattering because the parent has total trust in our care. However, the mum did acknowledge that feeling involved is necessary. 'As parents it's our responsibility to make sure our child is happy in whatever environment. Finding out what happens at nursery is very important,' she added.

This mum was attending an Open Morning, a chance for parents to join daily activities. Recognising that different parents are available at different times, our next event was a Mother's Day afternoon tea. It was great to see staff, parents and children interacting with each other - playing football, threading beads and eating cake - and getting to know one other in a new way.

This atmosphere enabled staff to have a relaxed conversation with a parent who was anxious about what her baby was eating. The mother shared ways she encouraged eating at home so that staff could offer food in a compatible manner. This baby is now more contented at mealtimes.

I have watched a sense of community being built between parents, children and staff. This, ultimately, is what Parents as Partners should be about. If key adults in a child's learning can have friendly, communicative relationships, information and anecdotes will flow naturally. That can only serve to benefit the care and development of each unique child.

- Saffia Farr is a director and manager of Bristol Childcare, a family-run nursery group established for 39 years. She has three young children and writes on parenting issues at www.saffiafarr.com