Learner Record 4

Learner Record Entry 4

The importance of effective communication with children, families and colleagues

Effective communication is one of the most important aspects of childcare in relation to children, families and colleagues.

Communication with children plays a central role in interaction between the adult and child on a daily basis.  Entering the room, I greeted them with a smile, “Hello good morning” waving my hands.  There are busy playing, one by one I shake hands with them. I sing a song to them, like “Hello, hello, hello, Hello how do you do, I’m glad to be with you and you and you and you.”  The children then stop what they are doing and we shook hands. One of them started to ask me questions like, is your skin brown? She was curious, and I said yes, it is.  Another girl me ask too, why are you here?  And I reply to with a smile, to do my assignment, because I am doing a course. 

I was amazed how some kids were confident and open for communication, because I met some of friend child with same age, she was very shy back then.

            It makes me comfortable and at ease dealing with children and bending down to the child level to listen and know their interest which is very important to be connected with them.  Even the child feels embarrassed or shy it is important to help them be more at ease, comfortable, feel secure and trusting.  Children makes mistakes, it is my role as a childcare practitioner to teach them how to behave in an appropriate manner.

            Communications with families is very important and it helps to aid child’s holistic development.  Formal and information communications are the two types of communications.  Usually formal communication is written by can take other forms. In my placement communication is done through a notice board, text, a website, a daily activity book which include the pictures of a child activity and write up about part of her development.  Also, certificate from Tusla, combined CCS and ECCE fees policy, ECCE letter to parents/guardian, reminders of Healthy Eating policy, staff support and supervision time table, lunch rota, first aid, emergency contact, persons in charge.

            While doing my assignment in an ECCE setting, I saw this formal method of communications.  All records of children and staff are documented and filed.  Observations are taken on each child and are ready for parents to see and there were regular updates on their child and the curriculum.

            Informal communications deals with every day running and interactions between family within a setting when they brought and take their children.  They are welcomed, addressed by their names and feel supported.  Since I am only visited the facility for few days I can only say that the staff were very accommodating and the parents feel secure. 

            Communication with staff improves morale, makes the job more enjoyable and a learning experience.  People are more likely to enjoy coming to work if there is a good working relationship.  In order to have a good relationship with the staff in childcare an effective communication is vital. The lack of communication is likely getting frustrated, which leads to a negative learning environment and atmosphere for children.  Planning, coordination and sharing information are essential to avoid frustration.  Some points should be considered when working is to always carry out duties and responsibilities which is critical in teamwork.  Dividing tasks and duties work best.  Effective communication is essential and each voice should be respected.  Directions and suggestions should be offered in a friendly manner and criticism should be positive.  Employers expect professionalism by greeting each other politely and respectfully. 

            In my placement, the staff record everything on a daily basis and staff transfer from one room to cover one who was out for break or lunch.  Information that all staff members needed to know is posted on the wall like mentioned above.  This includes children’s daily activities, among other things.  Each room has a diary and used by staff that work in that room.  Information written in diaries were specific and related to work in specific room and it is factual and relevant.