Use this checklist as part of your program’s comprehensive system for fostering family engagement. Complete it as a staff team exercise; ask each staff member to complete the form, and discuss the responses at a staff meeting. Revisit the checklist on a regular basis to check on your progress.

Download the Program Self-Assessment Checklist as a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet.

As you work through the checklist, consider the following:

• Does your program have the listed policy or practice in place? Keep in mind that some of the policies and practices may not apply to your program (for example, the use of online technology, which may not be common among the families you serve), while you may want to institute others (such as regular parent-teacher conferences).
• Consider the quality and effectiveness of every listed policy or practice that is already in place. For example, if the program has family members on the board of directors, review how welcoming the board is to all families and how the program recruits board members.
• Make a plan to improve policies and practices, as needed.
  • Describe the new approach.
  • Determine how to move forward.
  • Assign individuals to take responsibility for implementation.
  • Monitor progress regularly.
• Celebrate your strengths!

Developed for NAEYC's Engaging Diverse Families Project through a generous grant from the Picower Foundation.
© National Association for the Education of Young Children.