The teachers' role is to plan and arrange the learning environment. Cultural diversity Multiracial, multicultural, nonsexist, nonstereotyping pictures, dolls, books, and materials are fully part of the classroom to teach children the value of diversity and to ensure that all children's backgrounds are respected. Responsibilities Daily, routine activities are part of the learning process. For example, children are given responsibility for setting tables at mealtime and helping with clean-up during the day. All communication between programs and families is based on the concept that parents are the principal influence in children's lives.
Parents are well-informed about and welcome as observers and contributors to the program.
Parents are given written information about what to expect from the program and what the program expects from them through a parent handbook, newsletters, bulletin boards, and other similar measures. Parents are welcome to visit at any time and are encouraged to participate in a variety of ways, such as eating lunch with the children, observing during the day, volunteering to help, and attending parent meetings. The quality and competence of the staff are the most important determinants of the quality of an early childhood program and of positive outcomes for children. It is critical, therefore, that the program is staffed by adults who are trained in child development and who recognize and provide for children's needs. Careful hiring Hiring procedures include careful checking of personal references of all potential new employees.