[Jo1988]

Possible barriers and how they can be overcome.
a few ideas...

Language: Parents may not speak the same language as the member of staff this can cause not much or no communication and can lead to frustration.
This can be overcome by getting the parent to bring in someone with them who can help them understand what has been said this may also have to be in written format but a lot of computers these days also have a translation setting of written words.

Disability: disability can cause problems in the partnership and the ways that we can help overcome these barriers it depends of the individuals need for example... Sign language for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, Training can be attended to learn the sign language if its desired or they can bring along a friend or family member who knows sign language and can translate for them, Large print for those who are visually impaired, wheelchair access ect...

Time: A parent might not have time to communicate with the staff they may be in a hurry and sometimes messages are not passed on either side. There are many ways to overcome this situation day to day books can be filled in by the staff and are given to the parent at the end of the day, parents can also write if they want to say anything in the day book and give it to the staff at the beginning of the day, also email addresses and phone calls can be used to exchange information sometimes its best for the parent to contact the staff first and then use all their communication skills to expand this, even letters can go out giving any additional information or consent forms.

Under the influence of drink/drugs: A parent could be under the influence of drink and or drugs, this can cause possible side effects such as spaced out, drunk, day dreaming, tired, aggressive, withdrawn, anxious all these effects can cause lack of communication and can cause a danger to the staff and the children/child. Ways to overcome this is offer support for the parent try to talk to them and approach them calmly ask them how they feel and if they are ok and try to offer additional support.

Fathers: Sometimes it can be embarrassing for a father to be in a nursery with lots of mothers and they may want to drop off their child quick and rush out the building this can be due to, shyness and feeling uncomfortable. To overcome this the father is introduced to the partnership model of the nursery and made sure he is aware of the policy, make him feel comfortable and include him in conversations, if he still feels shy then mention to him he can personally phone the key worker to speak to them throughout the day for any information needed about their child.