Standard 7: NAEYC Accreditation Criteria for Families Standard

The following chart presents the accreditation criteria for this topic area. Each criterion provides specific details to guide program plans, policies and practices. The criteria are numbered (01, 02, 03, etc.) within their topic area. Each criterion within each program standard is identified by its relevant age group (or groups). Many criteria are identified as "universal" (U), meaning that all classrooms and programs pursuing NAEYC Accreditation must address these criteria. These aspects of quality should be seen in any programs or classrooms serving birth through kindergarten, though they may look somewhat different in practice depending on the children's age.

Age Groups:
U = universal
I = infant
T = toddlers/twos
P = preschool
K = kindergarten

7.B.
Sharing Information Between Staff and Families

7.B.01
U   I   T   P   K
Program staff use a variety of mechanisms such as family conferences or home visits to promote dialogue with families. The program staff asks adults to translate or interpret communications as needed.

7.B.02
U   I   T   P   K
The program compiles and provides program information to families in a language the family can understand. This information includes program policies and operating procedures.

7.B.03
U   I   T   P   K
Program staff inform families about the program's systems for formally and informally assessing children's progress. This information includes the purposes of the assessment, the procedures used for assessment, procedures for gathering family input and information, the timing of assessments, the way assessment results or information will be shared with families, and ways the program will use the information.

7.B.04
U   I   T   P   K
When program staff suspect that a child has a developmental delay or other special need, this possibility is communicated to families in a sensitive, supportive, and confidential manner and is provided with documentation and explanation for the concern, suggested next steps, and information about resources for assessment.

7.B 05
I   T
Program staff communicate with families on a daily basis regarding infants' and toddlers'/twos' activities and developmental milestones, shared caregiving issues, and other information that affects the well-being and development of their children. Where in-person communication is not possible, program staff communicate through established alternative means.

7.B.06
U   I   T   P   K
Program staff communicate with families on at least a weekly basis regarding children's activities and developmental milestones, shared caregiving issues, and other information that affects the well-being and development of their children. Where in-person communication is not possible, program staff communicate through established alternative means.