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156  TOPIC 10 PROVISIONS FOR ADULTS
centre. An engaging early childhood setting should have a physical space for parents to gather and look for opportunities to be meaningfully involved with staff or educators such as serving as advisory. The ambience of early childhood centres contributes to the positive relationship-building process in concrete and meaningful ways. It sets the norms for social interaction among parents and between parents and staff. Parent involvement is vital for young childrenÊs success in early childhood setting. They should be involved in as many ways as possible so that the parents and their young child can build the foundation for lifelong academic success together. Some of the centres create opportunities for parents to attend classes or workshops, sit and talk with one other parents, teachers or staff, share food together and attend social events. They may also provide materials in all appropriate languages for parents.
10.1.2 Space for Staff
Today, many schools and early childhood centres continue investing in providing areas or spaces where staff can relax and have a rest at work. A relaxed work place for staff and educators can lead to job satisfaction and reduce stress among staff. Physical space such as break room for staff is vital because it provides a place for them to unwind after work or during break. The space used as a break room should have a welcoming and relaxing environment where staff and educators can interact with each other and relieve stress throughout the working day. This space should be used by teachers, and staff for meals, breaks and meetings, as well as for one-on-one learning for selected young children. The room should be very inviting and convey the message that the work every staff does is very important. If possible, provide a large table that accommodates the staff and educators so that everyone can sit together for meals, meetings and discussion.
Working in the early childhood setting is highly dependent on the physical environment of the centre. This environment should provide ways to increase collaboration among staff and educators. Encouraging interaction among staff and educators through a conducive environment can increase work performance, creativity and create stronger bonds within the workplace. Staff that face a lot of pressure such as maintaining minimum staff to young children ratio, working with young children and families and low operating budgets can easily be dissatisfied if the facilities in the centre are against their working demands. As a result, inconvenience, fatigue and stress will affect their mood and work performance. However, the staff break room can promote emotional and physical well-being among staff. It can serve many purposes. Staff and educators can gather, discuss centre issues, problems and performance tasks that cannot easily be done in the classroom, giving staff a place to get away from tasks for a while. A break room for staff can provide a space for them to relax and recharge during the working day.
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