This course focuses on the characteristics, processes, and roles associated with effective collaboration, teaming, consultation, facilitation, and communication within family, school and community systems.  We will examine strategies for collaboration and consultation with professionals and agencies involved in supporting the family and child in a variety of settings, as well as with families of children under the age of six who have special needs.  We will also review working with and supporting paraeducators. As part of this course, we will examine family systems theory, diverse family structures, and the role of the family as the primary context for children’s development.  The differences among families due to race, culture, language, poverty, and/or composition will be discussed so ECSE professionals can understand and come to value each family’s unique strengths.

There will be three 1.5 hour Zoom meetings scheduled throughout the semester. Attendance at all meetings is required. Dates and times TBD.