Communication Journal? (Notebook)

[Play and Learn]

I had one family that didn't read my daily logs (as I found them all still in the bag) and they don't have email either. Thank god that family is done on Thurs!!!!

One family absolutely loves them (also helps that mom was an ECE and is now a teacher. They brought me a duotang to put them in, and they told me they want to keep them, as his older sister didn't have them from her old daycare.

[little rascals]

I do a journal for children under two. Once they turn two no longer need it. I find it is helpful for the parents to know what they did and ate throughout the day. I find the meal description important bc if a rash or something appears than it may be a food allergy, especially at young ages. At these young ages the kids cant explain to parents what they did or ate. Once they are talking and being more independent i get rid of the journal. Its also easier to recall things when the parents start asking questions lol. Sometimes the days are soo hectic that you cant remember it all.

[Dreamalittledream]

I too use this. Simple dollar store notebooks (the ones with the pockets in them...handy on payday, and to put crafts in). They each bring little backpacks each day and the books travel back and forth in that. I e-mail (saves me $ by e-mailing it) a monthly calendar to them (activities/meals/holidays all on it). I don't write in the logs everyday but most days (anything out of the ordinary, trying new foods, sleep patterns, milestone etc.). It's a wonderful tool, parents tell me as well out of the ordinary things (child was up early etc.). Sometimes Dad or Aunt drops off, different parent picks up...a great way to keep everyone on the same page. Yes, a lot of the same is communicated at pick up orally, but it can get crazy when everyone comes at once...at least I have peace of mind in case I forget anything that it's written as well and I don't have to wonder if I remembered to ask for diapers or wipes, for example. Hope that helps.

[Daycare123]

I use communication journal - parents use it daily! It works great!