Community and the role it plays in the life of a child

1. -A shared concern or passion. -A shared practice. -A commitment to learning. -A commitment to interact regularly.

2. Partnerships build bridges between families, communities and schools. As children interact with people, places and things associated with the family, the immediate community and beyond, they extend their horizons to develop the attitudes, skills and knowledge they need to become effective citizens. Schools should partner with the community in order to provide the best possible education. True partnerships are based on mutual respect. In a school-community partnerships, all members of the community recognize children in an environment that provides conditions for health, safety and learning. It is important to provide children with a rich and supportive learning environment. Schools and community members must recognize these common goals and work together for the sake of children.

3. Young children develop in an environment of relationships, with a child's community providing a vital relationship context for their learning and development. This is particularly important during the early years when the foundations of brain architecture are being built. From birth, positive, responsive, consistent and secure relationships with others provide a supportive, growth-promoting environment for children's development, well-being and learning. Children's academic, social-emotional and mental health outcomes are built on this foundation.

4. A child's relationship environment begins in the family, but then extends to adults and peers outside of the family who have important roles in their life. Educators and other education and care staff are a significant part of many children's relationship environment. Communities that foster positive interactions and relationships between children, peers and adults strengthen children's outcomes.