This is a good time to follow up on past concerns or interests that staff are already aware of. Also allow enough time for children to gather their things together. If parents have time, encourage them to sit for a minute and observe or participate. Staff can also direct a parent's attention to a new game or tell them about an activity while the child is getting ready to leave. Knowing about their child's day will help parents have things to talk about on the way home.
Staff can also encourage children to talk to their parents.
If staff members know that a child was particularly interested in something he or she did at school, they can help the child initiate a conversation with the parents. This is also a good time to give parents regular, positive feedback about their children. This promotes the child's self-esteem. It will also encourage them to listen on the few occasions when problems need to be discussed. Also remind parents about upcoming special events.