Parent perspectives on services and relationships in two English early years centres

Author: Robson, Sue

Source: Early Child Development and Care, Volume 176, Number 5, July 2006 , pp. 443-460(18)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

This paper presents the views of a sample of parents from two early years settings in England, about their relationships with the centres, and the services available to both themselves and their children. In making their initial choice, and in promoting the centres to others, the importance of informal social contacts is stressed. Parents suggest a range of affective, cognitive and physical benefits associated with their children's attendance at the centres. As parents, they also value a range of factors for themselves, particularly practical support, feelings of well‐being and peace of mind, and confidence in the safety of their children. Parents derive considerable satisfaction from their relationships with individual members of staff. The notion of involvement as an indicator of successful partnership is challenged, and the importance of strategies and solutions that meet the needs of each community is emphasised.

Keywords: Partnership; Parent involvement; Parent perspectives; Relationships

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/03004430500039721

Affiliations: 1: Roehampton University, UK

Publication date: 2006-07-01

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