Models of Family-School Partnership: Who Is in Power When We Care for the Children We Share?

Abstract

In this chapter, three models that try to explain the collaborative relations between parents and ECEC teachers are analysed. McAllister Swap models discuss interactions between parents and professionals based on beliefs, expectations, and involvement strategies. Epstein’s Six Types of Parental Involvement are considered through the prism of involvement as a potentially passive position. It is questioned whether in this model the parents are involved by someone, or they have the option of choosing to participate, or not. Hornby’s model of parental participation is considered in relation to parental strengths and parental contribution. Parents are approached as separate individuals who have the option of choosing (not)participating. Given that both models see parents as part of governing bodies, the chapter provides an account of the involvement/participation of parents as decision-makers in ECEC in different countries.