ABSTRACT
The phrase ‘partnership working’ is used in the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework and it is intended to mean any interaction between parents and practitioners in relation to the wellbeing and education of children. Parental engagement and parental involvement are often used interchangeably although some researchers categorises them as some different levels of engagement. However, research suggests that the quality of the relationship that takes place in pre-school settings can build bridges between families and professionals that confers longer-term benefits for all involved. All early years settings, from childminders to 200 place day care centres, have a responsibility and a duty to work with parents and families. Those making use of childcare will be as diverse as it is possible to be in their personalities, beliefs, dispositions, income, socio-economic status, class, race, ethnicity, faith, sexual orientation, health and nationality. The chapter also provides an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
