Engaging families for problem solving

In Illinois, many families near or below the poverty line do not enroll their children in early learning programs.

Often, they face obstacles such as language and/or cultural barriers, financial challenges, transportation issues, incompatable work schedules or simply misunderstand the early learning enrollment process.

Schools are asked to enroll and serve more children from priority populations so children may receive the benefits of early childhood learning, including social-emotional development, literacy and math skills to be better prepared to enter kindergarten.

Here are three things to keep in mind when working to enroll families in your community who may be experiencing homelessness, poverty, language barriers or child welfare services:

1. Families are equal partners.

• Engage parents at all levels. As for their input, their help and their feedback.

• The more families schools engage, the more voices contribute to understanding enrollment obstacles andidentifying solutions related to access.

• Collaborating with families helps schools get a better understanding of enrollment obstacles directly from the perspective of the families they serve.

2. Families help families.

• Families tend to receive information and resources from other families about early learning programs and screening for diverse learners.

• Families know where other families live and may contribute to outreach planning.

3. Families want to be involved in problem solving.

• Marketing materials created with family input are more effective.

• Parent input and advocacy can help restore funding for early childhood programs.