“Construction site: Parent communication” in early childhood education

Construction flaw or comfort zone?

Especially in early childhood education, regular communication with parents is necessary—but not always easy. We listened closely to identify the biggest practical challenges*. Here, we show how you can build a stable foundation for effective parent communication.

“Communication has nothing to do with the tool. It is about mindset and personal development at the highest level.”
(Andreas Ebenhöh)

Key factor: Language

Lack of communication or insufficient communication represents one of the biggest gaps. Much energy is often spent without addressing the root cause.

Let’s begin with language barriers. Communication apps such as KidsFox or Sdui include integrated translation features, enabling everyone to communicate in their native language. Discussing a child’s educational development requires advanced language skills and involves strong emotions. This challenge is easier to overcome when communication starts from a stable and familiar foundation—because people feel more confident in their native language. This also reduces misunderstandings and encourages parents to provide feedback more openly.

KidsFox provides welcome letters for parents in six different languages to facilitate onboarding into digital communication. With this step-by-step guidance, educators can ensure that all parents feel included and aligned.

“If we talk about communication problems, let’s first talk about connection problems.”
(Andreas Ebenhöh)

Early childhood education: architect or supervisor?

Before expecting certain behaviors from parents, it can be helpful to reflect on how early childhood education institutions are perceived. In Germany, early childhood education centers are officially recognized as educational institutions, with a legally defined educational partnership between parents and educators. In practice, however, they are often perceived primarily as childcare providers.

Many professional articles explore how to increase parental engagement. Other institutions struggle to build trusting relationships with families. In the article “Parent communication is a matter of trust,” you can find an overview of how to build a stable foundation for collaboration with parents.

The organizational foundation for every early childhood education center

When responsibilities are carried by too few people, the quality of educational work suffers. This leads to stress and overload. To address this, Andreas Ebenhöh developed the “Kita Heroes Emergency Plan.” It helps protect educators’ mental and physical well-being while balancing legal supervision duties, care responsibilities, child welfare, and staff protection.

“Don’t ask ‘What is respect?’ Ask the other person: ‘What must I do for you to feel respected by me?’”
(Andreas Ebenhöh)

Castle in the air or multipurpose hall?

If we want to create a shared space for parent communication, it is important to consider the different expectations parents and educators may have. Clearly defined concepts and consistent implementation help parents identify with the institution’s values and rules.

In our webinar Construction site: Parent communication, Andreas Ebenhöh presents practical measures to establish commitment and prevent conflicts before they arise. This transforms parent communication from a construction site into a supportive and trusted environment.

Does this sound familiar?

In his webinar, Andreas Ebenhöh addresses these and many other challenges and explains the three essential questions educators should ask to find solutions.

• Cultural sensitivity and understanding

  Understanding is the starting point of working with parents. It is essential to recognize and respect families’ cultural backgrounds, as they influence communication styles and expectations.

• Administrative and logistical challenges

  Educators often struggle to get parents to confirm receipt of important information or engage with relevant content.

• Conflict resolution and crisis management

  What skills are needed to manage difficult conversations and conflicts with parents? How can educators develop both the knowledge and the mindset required?

• Time constraints

  Time for communication is limited. Educators often feel under pressure to communicate effectively with parents while managing daily responsibilities.

• Educational philosophy and pedagogy

  Differences in understanding educational approaches can create tension. Open communication and alignment with the institution’s pedagogical concept are essential.