Interpersonal Communication - Introduction to Families

Attention

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this lesson's material, students will be able

• Create a letter of introduction to families enrolled in the program
• Strategize and implement effective introduction techniques
• Exhibit proficiency in interpersonal communication skills

Teaching

As a parent of children in early care and education settings, nothing drives me more bonkers than seeing people I do not know playing with my children.  I know my children best and I do not let strangers play with them outside of their childcare.  So why should I allow strangers to play with them at daycare?  More importantly, why on earth would no one have enough respect for me, as the parent to do introductions?

This lesson will not only help you to understand the importance of writing a letter to the families as in introduction but the importance of introducing yourself or making a plan for teachers to introduce you!

Interpersonal communication skills are a process of exchanging information.  It is not about what is actually said but how it is said.  The letter will send critical information for all parents to know who you are.  It should be sent out so that all families have a heads up about what is happening in their child’s classroom.  THEN the introduction takes place.  You can refer back to the letter and make the important connection that the family deserves. 

I know most of you are probably feeling hesitant and maybe even a little scared.  It’s OKAY!  Interpersonal communication skills are a vital part of early childhood.  This is where it all begins.  If you don’t start the introductions now, how else will you master the art of confidence (or at least fake it) when talking with families?  As you develop your plan, keep in mind the importance pieces of interpersonal communication:

• Tone of voice
• Facial expression
• Gestures (maybe a handshake?)
• Body Language

http://www.boystown.org/parenting/article/introducing-yourself

http://www.wikihow.com/Introduce-Yourself

Assessment

Interpersonal Communication Assignment

The Family Letter

BEFORE starting your practicum you are required to craft a letter to the families.  This letter should include:

• Who you are and something personal (hobbies, interests, pets, etc.)
• What class you are in and what is the purpose of the class and what are your goals while in this placement (you do not need to be specific here.  Just give them a generic broad goal so that they don’t think your goal is to corrupt their child and make them uncomfortable).
• When you will be there (times, days and when it ends)
• Any assignment you have to do that their child may be involved with

You will find three sample letters that you may use as a guide.  Feel free to look online for more.
Submit the letter to the instructor for revision and have it ready for your first meeting with the placement contact.

Interpersonal Communication Discussion

Introductions

Your first week should be filled with introductions!  Read the attached information about why introductions are important and how to do it.  Practice in the mirror, on your family members, the dog, whoever.  Then gear up to do loads of them the first few weeks you are in your new setting.  Keep notes because there will be a follow up discussion in a few weeks!  For now…….

I want you to post your introduction (they will probably look very similar to everyone else’s) “Hi I’m ______ and I _______”