Description of Resource Collection for Parents

Yuan Chen (Anna)

Prof. Christine Schull

CHD 216

The collected resources are grouped into ten categories, and arranged alphabetically. They are prepared for the parents of preschoolers with age from 3 to 4. They cover issues of choosing appropriate childcare and toys, county guidelines, milestones from 3yrs to 5-yrs, safety, health, and communication. As a teacher, one part of our job is to educate parents to strengthen their ability to effectively understand their children. The more knowledge about child education they have, the happier and healthier reciprocal relationship they will enjoy with their children. Two resources about infants are also included because some preschoolers may have younger siblings. They can be helpful to those who may need this kind of information.

I feel these resources are also helpful to new immigrants, since they may have limited knowledge about the educational system in America. It is often seen that new immigrant parents are not brave to speak freely with teachers. These resources, from Fairfax County Department of Family Services, can help them to know more about the system, rules, policies and regulations in this country, particularly in this community.

The guidelines and milestones give parents a picture about the process of children’s development. That information can help parents to have appropriate expectations towards their children. Sometimes, it can avoid some unnecessary conflicts due to too high’s or too low’s expectations or goals. Two articles about discipline are included, which can help those parents who do not have good strategies of dealing with children’s behavior problems. They may know what problem the child has, but may not know the appropriate way to deal with it. Professional knowledge can enhance their parenting skills.

There are five resources related to reading and early literacy. Reading skills will determine the level of later academic success even a person’s whole life.

In my teaching, I will invite parents to provide some articles, flyers, even to share their own experiences about educating, which can be valuable items added to the parents’ corner. That can also give us a chance to know more about parents.