Defining Relationship-Based Family Engagement: Strategies for Early Childhood and Elementary Educators and Caregivers
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| Title: | Defining Relationship-Based Family Engagement: Strategies for Early Childhood and Elementary Educators and Caregivers |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Annie M. White, Dana Winters, Sarah Goehring, Emma Swift Lee |
| Source: | School Community Journal. 2025 35(2):9-28. |
| Availability: | Academic Development Institute. 121 North Kickapoo Street, Lincoln, IL 62656. Tel: 1-800-759-1495; Web site: http://www.schoolcommunitynetwork.org/ |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 20 |
| Publication Date: | 2025 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research Tests/Questionnaires |
| Education Level: | Early Childhood Education Elementary Education |
| Descriptors: | Family Involvement, Caregiver Attitudes, Teacher Attitudes, Early Childhood Teachers, Elementary School Teachers, Family School Relationship, Interpersonal Relationship |
| ISSN: | 1059-308X 1059-308X |
| Abstract: | Family engagement is important for children's learning and development. Research shows that strong relationships between families and educators are essential for partnerships to be successful. However, it is less clear what meaningful family engagement looks like during everyday interactions. We interviewed and conducted focus groups with 73 educators and 12 caregivers of children aged birth to sixth grade from around one state in the Northeastern United States. We also analyzed 176 video minutes of family--educator interactions. Using data, we define relationship-based family engagement as a partnership that starts from a place of strength, centers empathy, and is built from everyday interactions. We also describe practical strategies shared by participants for families and educators that seek to build relationships in support of their children and one another. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2025 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1489694 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | Family engagement is important for children's learning and development. Research shows that strong relationships between families and educators are essential for partnerships to be successful. However, it is less clear what meaningful family engagement looks like during everyday interactions. We interviewed and conducted focus groups with 73 educators and 12 caregivers of children aged birth to sixth grade from around one state in the Northeastern United States. We also analyzed 176 video minutes of family--educator interactions. Using data, we define relationship-based family engagement as a partnership that starts from a place of strength, centers empathy, and is built from everyday interactions. We also describe practical strategies shared by participants for families and educators that seek to build relationships in support of their children and one another. |
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| ISSN: | 1059-308X 1059-308X |
