Partnership for better learning in early childhood education .

 

“It takes a whole village to educate a child”

Partnership of educators, parents and community plays an important role in a child’s education. The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) stresses that the learning outcomes for children would be achieved through the partnerships of educators, children, families, other professionals and the community (AGDE, 2022). It also focuses on the need to value and respect diversity, different perspectives and aspirations for partnerships to be effective. The EYLF document identifies parents and families are the first and most influential teachers. Further, the National quality area 6: Collaborative partnerships with families and communities sets the standards to foster partnerships for holistic learning for children (ACECQA, 2022). 

Studies show children’s learning are enhanced when there is a positive partnership, collaboration and community engagements. Bierman et al (2017) attributes strong communication and collaboration of educators and parents boost academic, social and emotional development in children. Similarly, when educator communicate with parents on how and what to do at home regarding academic and other skills, it greatly influenced children’s learning (Lin et al, 2019). Studies by Fordham and Kennedy (2017) also recommended that when educators share planning with families, support gradual transitions and build positive partnerships to enhance better learning. The EYLF principle on partnership and NQS ensures that such positive relationships to support children’s learning, wellbeing and development. 

The EYLF principles and practices as well as NQS quality areas supports partnership between educators, parents, families and community to create holistic learning environment. Therefore, it is a shared responsibilities of all involved to create a safe and conducive environment for children to learn and grow.