After reading the Relationship-Based Practices scenarios, answer the following questions:
- Think about how you would handle the situations using a relationship-based model of practice described by Baker and Manfredi/ Pettit (2004).
- Pick any 3 scenarios. Identify which scenarios you picked.
- Explain how you would respond and what you would do in the situations.

Scenario # 1: IF my coworker was coming late to work I would try to speak to the upper management team And as for extra help if possible. If they are not able to provide with the extra help For any reasons, I would try to get the children engaged with some type of activity pay that they seem to enjoy in order to have everyone close together in order for me to be able to have a clear vision on every child.
Scenario # 4: I would try to give a heads up to all the parents and guardians for the activities that would be taking place each day. With Marcuses family case I would kindly ask them to provide with extra clothing in order to swap them for the activity in order for the child to not feel left out in the classroom, however if the family still disagrees with the expectations I would try to set up a different sensory activity that does not involve children to either get their clothing dirty. As a teacher my priority is to make sure everyone is engaged as a whole and no one feels left out in any actives or sceneries.
Scenario # 10: In Miguel’s situation I would definitely respect the parents concerns and would take extra precaution to make sure that I do meet the parents expectations in changing the dipper every hour. My priority is to make sure I have a good relationship not only with the child but also the parents, which helps me build a better bond with the child and also understand their background better.
We both picked Scenario #1 and we both handled it in two different ways. I would’ve never thought about asking the upper management team for extra help. That’s such a good idea
I really liked how you would handle these three scenarios, making sure to inform and respect the parents of the children.
Like how you explain scenario 4 give parents a head up when there is going to be messy play to bring extra clothes
Edisa i agree with you, when you mention scenario #4, you want to include the child in every activity but also if the parent does not want their child to get messy, you are willing to find other activities that are not as messy and the parents would agree with, and making bonds with the parents.
Scenario #1: If my coworker was coming into work late leaving me alone with the kids I would let him/her know how I personally feel and make sure I tell them that it is very unprofessional of them to do something like that. I would definitely say it in the best way possible. If after this situation still remains to happen then I would let someone in a higher position know about it.
Scenario #3: Regardless if Carlos doesn’t have any cuts or anything, I would still let his parents aware that there was an accident with one of the employees. It is respectful for the parents of the child to know everything that has happened to him when they weren’t with him.
Scenario #6: Based on the request from Li’s family I would try my best to offer different foods to Li, just to make sure there is something going in his system. If he still continues not to eat I would then ask if everything is okay to try and get a better understanding of what the problem is. If Li still refuses to answer then I would then notify the parents of the child as to what has been happening lately.
Hey Isis, I liked how you handled the first scenario the way you though about giving him/her a second chance. I totally agree with all your scenarios, specially number three it is very important that we inform parents about any incidents that occur in the classroom so that parents are aware of them.This will not only help built a strong relationship with parents but also a trust worthy one. Good job :).
I also did scenario 3 and I also think you should still check the child to see if he hurts anywhere even though their are no marks but other then that informing the parents is always important for the child
I agree with how you would handle scenario 3 informing the parents is always best. Making a report to managements I would say should be done too
I too believe to speak with the coworker first before getting management involved. I believe going straight to management can cause more problems in any work place.
I agree with how you would handle scenario 3 because it’s important to let parents know what happens to their child if they are not around
Scenario#1 If my coworker starts showing up late I would approach him/her in a calm manner and ask what has been going on, inform them that it is unprofessional to be showing up late without calling in before hand and letting anyone know what is going on. If the situation was to remain the same I would speak to someone in a higher position and inform them on what is going on.
Scenario#3 I would inform my new coworker that she should have made sure that the straps were secured around Carlos and still check to make sure Carlos is okay, even though he may not have any marks on him he could still in some form be injured. I would also make sure to let his parents know on what has happened to him.
Scenario#8 I would talk to the father and let him know that this would need to be reported and if their has been any abuse towards the child that would definitely need to be looked on to as well. I would also try to look onto the child to see if their are any signs of abuse that has been placed on the child, physically or emotionally. I would also bring it up to someone of higher position in the school.
Hey Tiana, I like how you would handle scenario #3, us as educators we should always make your the children in our classroom are as secure and protected as much as possible, however accidents do occur and we have to make sure that the parent is informed no matter if the child has any marks or not, not only will this help us build a trustful relationships with the child parents because you are being up front about what had happened but also at the end of the day we have to make sure we are looking out for whats best for the child. Good Job :).
Tiana I too would discuss the importance of double checking straps on strollers. Safety first!
Tiana — Your response to scenario #1 shows you are working to build relationship with your colleague & your response to #3 shows you are engaging in open & honest communication with the family! Both are important elements of relationship-based programming! I imagine your new colleague in scenario #3 wanted to strap Carols into the stroller, what else could you do besides informing her “she should have made sure that the straps were secured around Carlos”? In scenario #8, what is there was no abuse regarding the child? How would you support the dad? Imagine you are the dad — what would you want the teacher to say to you?
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I like how you added how he can still have some sort of injury even though you cant see anything because that it the truth.
Senario 1 Your co-worker has been coming to work late recently which means you are left with the children until he arrives. I would have a conversation with my co-worker, to see whats the problem and how i can help in solving the problem. but not in front the children
Senario 3 I would make sure Carlos gets looked at by the school nurse , make a report of what happened and inform Carlos parents
Senario 10 For this senerio i would comply with the family demands and let them and the child know that i comply with their demands
I agree, when children are under our care we must make sure that their safety is our priority and must inform their parents if they suffered any injuries, regardless of how severe or not they are. We want to let the parents know that we take full responsibility for the injuries the baby obtain, we want to make strong relationships, not break them we want the families to trust us.
I agree with your respond to scenario one and how you shouldn’t have talk about the problem in front of the children
1. I would speak to my coworker first trusting that we have a good relationship. Check in. If continues get the Director involved.
2. Adhere to parent concerns. Possibly minimize child to taking one nap. Work out a plan with the family and try to adjust schedule.
3. Fill out an incident report, Let director know what happened, Contact family immediately, discuss with coworker on how to avoid accidents for the future.
Yes Deb talking to you co – worker is great and maybe asking questions to see if anything in his personal life is interfering with his work is a good idea.
Scenarios 1, 7, 10
Scenario #1: If my co-worker is coming late to work, i would first talk to her/him after the children go home, and ask if there has been an issue to why he/she is arriving late to work, then work to find a solution to the issue and talk to the director of the program to see what can be done, so it does not affect the children.
Scenario #7: If the director is removing microwaves, i would talk with the director personally and let her know that it is essential i have the microwave to be able to heat up the meals for the babies and see what solution we can come up with. If it is a matter of safety maybe it is better to place the microwave in another room where the caregivers are able to reach for it.
Scenario #10: If Miguel’s family is concerned about the diaper rash i would hear the family out and change the diaper every hour, i would want the family to see that i am respecting their concerns and that the well being of their child is very important to me as well.
Nice job Daisy. I see a lot of us used the scenario 1, think everyone can relate to the co-worker experience. I also believe in talking to the person first. I actually had this happen at work and after asking question I found out that it was caused by personal issues at home, so I think trying to find out what the problem is first is a good call.
Scenario 1
I would first approach my co-worker to see if there’s anything happening in his personal life that may be causes him to be late. I worked as a manager for FedEx for 13 years and from my experience I concluded that when something like this happens, it’s usually some kind or obstacle at home or in their personal life, that’s causes this behavior. After trying to figure out how and why this is happening, I would explain the importance of the children’s safety to my co-worker if it’s not a personal problem that’s causes him to be late.
Scenario 4
I would have a conversation with the parents to show how important sensory play is for Marcus’s development. I would then ask if we can work together to figure out other options for Marcus such as, bring another change of clothes for him or if Marcus can use an apron if provided by me.
Scenario 3
After checking Carlos to make sure he’s okay, I would have a conversation with my new co -worker to ensure she’s okay. As a mother I know sometimes when kids get hurt or an accident occurs with a child the caregiver make freak out or panic. I would then train/guide and show her what to do next time if it does happen. Lastly, I would reach out to the parents and inform them of what happen. Even if Carlos doesn’t show red marks or have bruises, informing the parents is important. You never know if a few days Carlos may show a bruise from the accident, so you want to always build a trustful and honest relationship with the parents.
Great job, I agree It is always good to inform the parents just incase a mark might appear.
Scenario 1:If my coworker was coming into work late leaving me alone with the kids I would let him/her know in a calm manner how I’m feeling about the situation and ask politely what has been going on.
I would also explain to them that this is unprofessional to do, showing up late to workplace without informing anyone what your situation is. If this continues, I would then speak to an employee with a higher rank and let them know what is happening.
Scenario 3: I would let Carlos’ parents know that there was an accident with that employee despite him not having any injuries. I believe that parents should always
know everything that is happening or involved with their child.
Scenario 7: I would speak with the director one on one and let him/her know
that it’s important and beneficial to heating up a baby’s meal and discuss a solution with them about where the microwave can go if it really does
need to be removed from the classroom. If the reason is fire safety, then I feel it is safer to have the microwave in a nearby room, where
it is out of harm’s way for the safety of the children but still close enough for the caregivers to access.
I agree!! Dealing with scenario 1 professionally is also important besides asking him what the problem is. I also like how you came up with an alternative with scenario 7.
Scenario 2: Since the family asked me to make sure she naps from 10AM to 12PM each day, I would do it and understand that it was causing her problems at bed time. I would talk more to the family to see what else they would need and that I would try my best to make sure Marquette naps from 10-12. It’s important to talk to the family and understand what they ask.
Scenario 3: Once I check if Carlos is actually ok I would call Carlos parents to let them know what happened because they should be informed about what happens to their child if they are not around. It’s the responsible thing to do even if Carlos does not have any cuts or bruises on him. Then I would talk to my co worker making sure she’s ok also because she might be scared that this happened with Carlos.
Scenario 10: I would understand that Miguel’s family is concerned about his diaper rash so for it to prevent from getting worse, I would change his diaper every hour since they told me what’s going on. I wouldn’t want Miguel to feel uncomfortable throughout the day because of the rash.
Solanny, I like how to put your understanding of relationship between the caregiver and the parents in scenario #2. It is very important to communicate with families as they know their child the best! Then from there we as caregivers can work further on with the child in his/her schedule and development.
Hi Solanny! I have chosen scenario #2 as well and I think we would handle this particular situation differentlu, whereas you would talk with them inmediately to find other possible nap schedule, I think I would first try my best for the parents directions to work and then after being convinced that it doesnt work, then I would proceed and have a chat with the parents to find other possible options.
I really liked the way you would handle the other scenarios. great job!
i agree with your solution for scenario 2 even thought it may be difficult to get one child to sleep at a certain time when all of the usually sleep at the same time but at the end of the day they brought their chid there so we have to obey to our best ability as the teacher its priority.
I respect but disagree with your response for scenario 2
scenario #1- I would first approach my co-worker by asking him why has he been coming late to work. I would ask him if he was going through something which he wants to share with me. In the meantime, when I am alone with the children, I would engage them in something which has to do with sitting down and not running around. As, being the only help there, it would be difficult for me to handle all at the same time. The activities could be- reading to them, or a task where they have to work together as a group which will engage them to interact which will help them in forming relationships as well.
scenario#4- If those sensory activities involve the children in dirtying their clothes then I would suggest all parents to send an extra pair of clothing along with the children. I would not stop performing such activities. I would try to explain Marcus’s family that this is a good way of teaching children to use their senses and even if their clothes are getting dirty, it shouldn’t stop them from having fun. I would also ask Marcus if he is okay with the activities and getting his clothes dirty and if not then I would arrange another set of activities which solves the same purpose.
scenario#6- I would ask Li if he is feeling alright and why hasn’t he been eating his snacks and his lunch. I would also ask his family if this is something new that he has started or has he always acted this way. Also does he eat properly at home and if yes then if he is only doing it here at daycare, then I would plan on changing the menu for him.
Vavi — Thanks for your responses! Your response to scenario #1 shows you are working to build a relationship with your colleague! Your response to scenario #4 & 6 shows you are working with the families to find a solutions to the issue. What if Marcus’ family doesn’t have money for an extra set of clothes or 2) have to take Marcus home by riding the subway and want him to look neat & clean for the trip home (in case they bump into someone they know)?
NOTE: Private response is visible only to instructors and to the post’s author.
Great job, I agree it is always good to see your coworker side he may be going through a hard time. It is also good that you know what you would do in the meantime while he isn’t there
Hi Vaishnavi! we both chose scenario #4 and I think we resolved the same way. It’s important to always give the parents a heads up of the activities in that we will engage with the children so we dont have any type of incovenients!
we both chose scenario 1 but i forgot to mention asking bout my coworker making sure he/she is okay but i know i wouldn’t be upset because things to do happen
Scenario #1- If my coworker kept constantly coming to work late which leads me to having the children alone.. I would speak to him in a respectful way and hear his reasoning as to why he has been coming late. tell him to try not to let it happen again or I will have to tell Our boss.
Scenario #3- I would check to see if Carlos is ok & then I will have a conversation with my new coworker & let her know that I will speak to his parents.. Even though Carlos doesn’t have any injuries I would still call Carlos parents and explain the situation to them.
Scenario #10- I would listen to Miguel family wishes and I would change his diaper every hour like I was asked too.
Scenario #2: I would respect the parents decition and would do my best to make the sleeping schedule work for both the child and the parents.
Scenario #4: I would just ask the family to bring extra clothes for the child so he can be part of the messy activities.
Scenario # 7: I would talk with the comitee to find the best way to sort out things and any part gets afected.
I agree with you answer to scenario 4
Scenario #3- First and foremost in that moment i would make sure that carlos is hugged and verbally saying everything will be okay and comforting him because i can imagine that he would be shocked and just scared that he fell even thought there was no harm and If Carlos didn’t have any cuts or bruises on him it is my job to let the parents know the incident so that they are aware no matter if there was no physical harm.
Scenario#8- Personally i always feel for people and i actually know what its like to be stressed out in certain situations i would make sure i keep in contact with this family ensuring that something can be done and if they need anything outside of the daycare watch i would make sure im so supportive to the family and the child because i know it can be difficult and i wouldn’t want the child witnessing any violence at home.
Scenario #1 – Something like this can be frustrating but i can’t let that interfere with my day with the kids can ask the supervisor for assistance or just follow the schedule to my best ability without showing that i’m frustrated in front of the kids because they don’t deserve that they are there to learn ad play and it will happen. The day must continue even if my coworker is late.
Scenario 1/ The best way to handle the late arrival is to have a talk with your coworker. Let him know that by leaving you with the children could cause a safety risk. You have to get to the root of a problem ,for the employee maybe haven’t a personal life crisis. Maybe he can switch time schedules with another worker who can meet the schedule.
Scenario 2 the center can make sure that the child naps longer before 12:00 p.m. Then in the afternoon put the child in another classroom while your classes naps in the afternoon.
The 4th scenario To solve this issue the teacher can make sure that the child engage in activities that don’t involve a lot of dirt. The parents can also be made aware that getting dirty is a healthy part of the a child’s development. Suggest they leave extra clothes be left at school.
I agree Beverlee for scenario 1 it does cause a safety hazard for the kids not having the right amount of teachers to children ratio.
Hey Beverlee, I agree with you on scenario #4 with suggesting the parents to bring extra clothes.
Scenario #5 : Being that we’re both teachers, I would have a sit down with the other teacher and speak to her and let her know that the projects don’t have to be pretty. The children doing the projects themselves helps to show where they are in growth as well as their creativity, the other teacher doing the art projects shows HER creativity.
Scenario #6 : I would tell the parents that you can TRY and help Li finish his food, never say that you will. I would suggest trying to give Li different foods that he may enjoy more.
Scenario #8 : Personally, I wouldn’t interfere with the families drama unless I can see that it is effecting the child in a negative way. Unless I see the child come to school with bruises or the child is hitting other kids based on what they are seeing at home, then I wouldn’t step in too much. I would casually check in and ask how things are going but i would not get into the family drama.
I agree Aalyah projects don’t have to be pretty they just have to be made by the child who is full of fun and happiness because of the project they are doing.
Hey Aalyah, we both chose scenario #8 but I did decide to get involved however I never looked at it through your perspective. I like the way you would have handled the situation.
I reviewed this module
Scenario#1. In this situation I would ask my coworker if he needs any help with anything and why he would be coming late to work? When he’d respond to the question I would try to figure out the best way I could possibly help him with the situation at hand so that he doesn’t come to work late everyday. I would help him because we are coworkers and that is why we have each other, to help one another when one can’t do something by themselves.
Scenario#6 In this case I would talk to the parents about what is going on with the child. I would let them know that we can’t force Li to finish his meals but that we think something may be causing him to not finish his meals. We can possibly suggest taking the child to the pediatrician to see what the cause is that Li won’t finish his meals like he used to.
Scenario#8 What I could do for this family is suggest the father speak to a family therapist and if he wants to call the police and press charges against his wife. What I myself can do is care for the child, show support for both the child and the father and let them know they will get through this tough time as a family.
1. Scenario #4 – I would respond by saying that sensory activities are very important in an early childhood classroom and how it helps the children learn better etc, and that I will as well come up with additional sensory activities that aren’t so messy but that there will still be messy sensory activities. And that if they don’t want Marcus to get his clothes dirty then bring him another pair of clothes that they wouldn’t mind him getting dirty in.
2. Scenario #6 – I would respond by saying that I will try my best to make sure Li eats all his food but I will not force him to finish his meals if he’s not hungry anymore. What I would do in the situation is figure out if Li is eating too make for breakfast at home and then during lunch time I will make it fun to finish his food.
3. Scenario #8 – I would pull the father aside and let him know how unhealthy an environment like that is for his child but also for him. I will contact the proper authorities and my higher management that will further deal with the special situation.
I re-reviewed this module
Scenario #1: If my coworker was coming into work late leaving me alone with the kids I would let them know how I feel and make sure I tell them that it is unprofessional. If it continues I would have to tell somebody higher up and get a new partner
Scenario #6: Based on what Li’s family said I would try to offer different foods to make sure he eats something. If he still continues not to eat I would try asking the family to bring in his favorie foods or things he likes.
Module closed