Parents, Families, and Carers

A set of flashcards covering barriers to partnerships, family structures, parenting styles, and reliable support resources based on the lecture notes.

What is the definition of a transition in a child or young person's life?

An expected or unexpected change in a child's or young person's life which can affect their behaviour or development.

How does working in partnership with parents support a child's or young person's wellbeing?

Partnership working develops trust between parents and the setting, which leads to a greater understanding of each child's or young person's needs.

Why are shared expectations between home and the setting important for a child's development?

Consistency in standards—such as home learning, uniform, care needs, and behaviour—supports the child or young person's development.

What defines a nuclear family structure?

A family unit with two parents who are co-parenting a child, including parents who identify as LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender).

What defines an extended family structure?

A family comprising uncles, aunts, and grandparents who might all be involved in raising the child or children along with their parents.

What defines a blended or stepfamily?

A family unit made up of a combination of two separate families, where one or both parents have children from previous relationships and now live together.

What are the characteristics of an authoritarian parenting style?

Emphasis on obedience, control, and following rules without explanation, where children may not be involved in any discussion or compromise.

What are the characteristics of an authoritative parenting style?

Clear rules and boundaries whose reasons are explained to children, with parents listening to their children and considering their views.

What are the characteristics of a permissive parenting style?

Few rules or expectations, with parents likely to have a relaxed approach and children having more freedom.

What is meant by a helicopter parent?

A parent who is heavily involved in every aspect of their child's life, which can be frustrating for the child and limit their long-term independence.

What is developmental delay?

A delay in one or more areas of a child's or young person's development.

Why is it important for educators to be sensitive to different family contexts and parenting styles?

It helps to value and respect families, contribute to inclusion in planning, inform understanding of behavioural context and developmental delay, inform support strategies, and ensure fair and inclusive practice.

What are three potential barriers to forming effective partnerships with parents?

Time constraints, work commitments, and limited resources (or mistrust from families, English as an additional language, SEND, and family members' negative educational experiences).

What is meant by an open door policy in an early years setting?

A policy where parents are welcome to come in to talk about their concerns or ask questions whenever possible, without necessarily needing an appointment or set time.

Why is it important for settings to maintain up-to-date email and phone contact details for parents?

To enable regular communication of information (especially if families do not live together) and for use in case of emergencies.

What is meant by an accessible building?

A building whose layout is inclusive and has physical adaptations so that parents and visitors with different needs or disabilities have appropriate access to the environment.

When would a home visit typically happen?

At different stages, particularly just before young children start school or nursery.

What support is provided by SENDAIASS / SENDIASS?

Local impartial information and support for parents and families of children who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

What advice and support does Citizens Advice provide to families?

A wide range of financial and legal advice, as well as information on benefits that may be available to parents and families.