C112 Opportunities for parents

Regular opportunities (formal and informal) are provided for parents to:

• communicate with adults providing education and care about their child, and share specific evidence of the child's learning and

• be involved in decision-making concerning their child’s learning.

Curriculum criteria documentation required

Discussions and decisions about children's progress and achievements should include collaboration with parents and whānau. They should contribute their expert knowledge of children's capabilities and interests at home, in other settings and the early learning service.

The learning and development of mokopuna is enhanced when culturally appropriate ways of communicating are used and when parents and whānau and community are encouraged to participate in and contribute to the curriculum.

The expectation is that each early childhood service will use Te Whāriki as a basis for weaving with children and parents and whānau its own curriculum priorities of valued learning, taking into consideration the aspirations and learning priorities of hapū, iwi and community, and reflect these in practice.

Portfolios and e-portfolios, and individual assessment journeys documenting children’s learning are a useful way for kaiako to follow children’s progress and interests and extend their learning. They also provide another opportunity for parents and whānau to engage with their children’s learning and contribute their own observations and suggestions.