ABSTRACT
Close liaison between parent and teacher is encouraged and the process of integration into the kindergarten is a gradual one. Teachers inform themselves about the child by meeting with the parents before the child joins the group, and filling out the ‘child profile’, which includes information on the birth, the developmental steps of the child, the cultural or religious beliefs of the family, medical or environmental influences, behaviour, social skills with their siblings and so on. The child has a slow integration into the group, with the parent visiting with the child if necessary. The teacher and assistant usually do a home visit during the first term, which is an opportunity to develop a closer relationship with the child. Regular parent evenings with a themed talk and activity provides an opportunity for parents to meet on a social basis, as well as familiarising the parents with the curriculum. The parents join the children for some festivals and puppet shows, and help is expected with the upkeep of the kindergarten, such as doing the washing, flower rota, providing organic fruit, joining the group for outings or bringing an activity such as helping with the woodwork or spinning.
