Watch this video for promising practices from a Head Start program for migrant families in San Luis Obispo, CA. Learn ways to foster strong relationships and partnerships between families and staff. Effective partnerships support parent-child connections, family well-being, and goal-setting.

Discover the importance of storytelling when collaborating and developing relationships with children and families. Learn to communicate with families and understand their values, strengths, and goals for the future.

Watch this video to learn specific strategies to use to encourage families to open up about what is most important to them.

When families share their stories, staff can better understand and identify resources to help families achieve those goals. In some cases, storytelling can help families recognize their accomplishments, resources, skills, and abilities.

Confidentiality is critical for developing strong and trusting relationships, especially for migrant families. It is important for migrant families to understand that personal information will be kept confidential. When families trust staff and share openly, staff can better help families access needed support and services.

Active listening is an important skill for all Head Start and Early Head Start staff. Watch this video to learn more about how listening, body language, and eye contact can help encourage families to share their stories.

When families share their stories with staff, it can be an emotional experience. Staff can encourage storytelling by sharing experiences or goals they may have in common with families. Recognizing these common ties and honoring the storytelling process can help strengthen relationship between staff and families.

Listen and empathize with families about the hardships they have endured. Watch this video to see how staff can connect with and support families, even when there may not be ready solutions to address their challenges.