Supporting Implementation and Continuity of Care

Supporting implementation of any programmatic or individualized intervention and continuity of care between the ECE classroom and home are important factors for healthy child development and the effectiveness of any intervention. Continuity of care is inclusive of what happens to a child at home and when he or she is under the care of another adult as well as the ability of the provider to understand, respect and build upon cultural and linguistic practices of the home (Chang, 1993).

Cultural and linguistic differences between ECE providers, children, and families can make this important work especially challenging. Early childhood mental health consultants can act as the bridge between families and staff, helping each to better understand their differences in perspectives, making adjustments to interventions as needed, and supporting ongoing and mutual collaboration.