92 Family & Community Partnerships 1. Knowing & Respecting Families 1. Mutual Respect Level 1 Recognize families as their children’s first and most influential caregivers and teachers. FCP 1.1.1 Level 2 Understand the importance of an early childhood environment where families’ contributions are valued as equally important as classroom experiences. FCP 1.1.2 Level 3 Identify families as central — the most important decision-makers in their children’s lives. Work with families in partnership to identify goals for their children. FCP 1.1.3 Level 4 Consider families’ values, goals, and concerns when making decisions that impact: o Policies o Programs o Curriculum o Environment FCP 1.1.4 Level 5 Analyze, evaluate, articulate, and apply evidence-based best practices regarding the value of family engagement and inclusive environments to early childhood professionals, other service providers, and community leaders based on current literature and research. FCP 1.1.5 2. Respect for All Families Level 1 Recognize the importance of treating all families with dignity and respect. Recognize that the structure and form of families vary greatly as do family values and cultural backgrounds. FCP 1.2.1 Level 2 Acknowledge families as equal partners. Engage in interactions to learn about family, culture, strengths, expectations, values, and traditions. Use knowledge about families to implement activities that support families’ culture, strengths, expectations, values, and traditions. FCP 1.2.2 Level 3 Design a learning environment that intentionally reflects sensitivity and acceptance of cultural diversity and family strengths. Implement curriculum with an anti-bias content. FCP 1.2.3 Level 4 Develop program policies that are flexible and accommodate family work schedules, religious holidays, and special circumstances. Collaborate with families and staff members to reflect their diverse experiences in continuous program improvement. FCP 1.2.4 Level 5 Model respect and acceptance of families throughout the community and the profession. Engage all members of the community to remove barriers or biases that might hinder development of respectful relationships FCP 1.2.5