A family room in a nursery school: An evaluation

Abstract

Evaluation of a family room in a nursery school raises issues of importance to others wishing to implement new strategies to capitalise on the benefits of parental involvement in early education. Two years after the opening of a family room, 25 parents and 11 teachers and nursery nurses were interviewed on the use and value of the room and on how its development fitted into the ethos of the school. Most users were positive about the value in bridging the move from home to school and removing barriers between staff and parents. Staff were supportive though uncertain how best to help. There were tensions in meeting the needs of children, parents and staff. More generally, the activities linked with the room had the effect of raising parents’ expectations. This can be perceived as dangerous if it causes unrest and dissatisfaction when there are not the resources to meet the new needs. It can also provide an impetus for change and energy to find new solutions.