Parent Education

Starting in the Parent/Child Workshop, an experienced WVNS staff member facilitates a bi-monthly discussion group. Various developmental subjects that interest and concern the group are discussed providing a broader picture by helping to put children’s behavior into a developmental perspective. Parents discover how much they have in common as they share the ups and downs of child rearing. They give support to each other and develop close bonds.

By observing the teachers in the Parent/Child Workshop and by assisting the teachers in the 2s/3s and 3/4s classrooms, parents have a unique opportunity to learn from a team of highly experienced early childhood professionals at work. Seeing teachers in action and observing how they talk to children provides a good model for parents. Putting these observations into practice and helping the teachers constitutes an apprenticeship in early childhood education. Moreover, it enlarges parents’ focus, as they learn to care about all the children in the group.

Additionally, WVNS teachers conduct group parent meetings to discuss what is happening in the classroom as well as outside professionals for evening discussions. Families are also informed of workshops and speakers available at other schools.