Link to Key Person System

Last updated: April 2026

Review date: April 2027

• The end of a session is often a challenging and sometimes hectic time. It is also a very important opportunity to communicate to parents and carers. It is vital that we consider our approach to this We need to provide positive feedback that builds trust with parents; that gives them a sense of confidence about us as carers and that creates a positive image of their child.
• This can sometimes appear to be a daunting task but practice will build confidence. We are all able to smile and say something positive about each individual child. We must be doing this every It is a vital part of our role as key workers and members of the room team. We need to make the effort to greet parents and volunteer information ourselves. Parents shouldn’t have to be asking us how their child’s day has been. If you know that this is a challenge for you personally, talk to your room lead or manager and ask for some help, they will be only too happy to support you.
• Think of the day’s activities and the child’s part in them; general factual information (eg what he had for lunch and how much he ate; and who he interacted with), are good starting points but remember that parents want to hear something that identifies their own child – what is he/she interested in at the moment? Who are his/her friends? What new skill is he/she developing? There may be an ongoing issue which has seen some improvement today. If a minor upset has been dealt with earlier in the day and it is finished with, it is not necessary to relay the details to parents – we shouldn’t be “telling tales” on children. Look for constructive feedback to pass
• Always start with the positive aspects. If there has been recurring behaviour that we would wish to discourage, this should be discussed sensitively but always honestly, in the context of the rest of the day. Aim to start and finish with something positive and always ensure you are talking privately so no other parents can hear your conversation.
• A vital element when engaging with parents, is to ensure we listen as well as Building a true partnership with parents for the benefit of each child, relies on obtaining a picture of him/her at home as well as at nursery. We need to be asking parents for their input to contribute to our observations and records.
• We must ensure that we are sharing information on any significant events of the child’s day with their parents or carers at the end of each session. This includes informing them of any accidents or incidents their child has been involved in, as well as how they child was supported or comforted at the We must also share any concerns regarding the child, for example, if the child had nappy rash. This information must be recorded and shared with the parents on the same day.
• Parents have entrusted their child to our care, we must give them peace of mind through showing them that their child is being cared for in their absence; that we know him/her as an individual and that we are working together with them to ensure their child is thriving and developing. All of us must be talking and listening to parents every day to feed back on each child we are responsible for.
• Always meet the parent and child with a smile as you welcome them to nursery. Always ask them how they are, if they’ve had a good day/night/weekend. Making someone feel welcomed builds confidence and gives them reassurance that their child will be well cared for. Building parent partnerships can also be part of safeguarding by understanding the needs of your families as well as your child. This can only be achieved through the establishment of trusting relationships.

01/06/26-V1.1 Added final paragraph on welcoming children and parents.