Take twos...knowing the family
Friday, February 22, 2013
Understanding a child's background and family circumstances is key to providing effective provision, says James Hempsall.
Meeting the needs of a particular child and their family is a challenge for any setting, as each child comes with their own set of circumstances and background.
This is true whether the child is from a fee-paying family, a least advantaged and funded family, or a vulnerable family.
Working with two-year-olds from vulnerable families can be a new experience, particularly for new staff - and even those with a wealth of previous experience.
Practitioners need to be familiar with the Common Assessment Framework, have a strong understanding and knowledge of child development and the underlying issues surrounding the family's circumstances.
The number of families accessing the free entitlement funding for two-year-olds is increasing rapidly. To meet demand, Wally's Day Nursery in Trowbridge, Wiltshire is ideveloping a specialised toddler unit for children aged two to three years old. This will create 19 new spaces for toddlers, including those from vulnerable families. As part of the development of this unit, the deputy manager and another member of staff attended the Level 4 unit, 'Understanding the Needs of Children and Young People who are Vulnerable and Experiencing Poverty and Disadvantage'.
The programme is a series of three interactive training days which focus on supporting the child and their development, and also recognise the steps needed to support the whole family so they feel valued and part of the community.
Deputy manager Louise Day reflects on her experience: 'The Level 4 unit I undertook opened my eyes to some of the challenges that are often kept behind closed doors in families, and to how to support and work with the families of the children to ensure that they receive the best possible all round care at home and while at the setting.'
Establishing such confidence goes a long way to extending the child's learning, the home learning environment and parents' life choices.
It is important practitioners consider their CPD to support such success.
Further information
James Hempsall is director of training and research provider Hempsalls (www.hempsalls.com).
