Building Strong Home-to-School Connections Through Family Newsletters
At Lillio Learning, we believe that
family engagement is a cornerstone of quality early childhood education. The connection between home and school plays a vital role in each child's growth and development. As educators, we understand that a child's first teachers are their families- the people who guide their earliest learning, routines, and experiences that shape lifelong skills.
To help programs nurture these essential partnerships, Lillio Learning includes Family Newsletters in every curriculum kit. These newsletters are designed to strengthen communication with families, helping them feel connected to what their children are learning, and inspiring meaningful learning moments at home.
What Families Will Find in the Newsletters
Each month's Family Newsletter gives parents and caregivers a window into the classroom. It outlines the month's learning themes, covering letters, numbers, colors, shapes, sign language, songs, and rhymes. This allows families to easily see what their children are exploring and even go on to include similar learning opportunities at home.
To encourage learning beyond the classroom, each newsletter also includes:
These elements give families practical, enjoyable ways to connect learning between home and school.
The "Learn with Me!" Section: Bringing Classroom Learning Home
A highlight of every Family Newsletter is the "Learn with Me!" section—a collection of easy, engaging activities that mirror the learning happening in the classroom.
For example:
- During the Everyday Helpers theme, families might explore ways children can contribute at home—like sorting laundry or setting the table.
- In Hello, Summer!, families might take a barefoot walk in the grass and talk about how it feels and smells—encouraging sensory exploration and conversation.
These experiences don't require special materials or preparation. They're simple, natural ways for families to deepen learning and connection in their daily routines.
We also feature art projects made from materials in your kit, along with conversation prompts that help families talk with their children about their creations. These questions spark curiosity, reflection, and language development—turning art into a shared learning experience.
Cues for Including Family Newsletters into Your Program
Here are a few ideas for making the most of your Family Newsletters:
- Display your provider copy in a visible area where families can read it. Papers can easily get misplaced, so having it posted ensures everyone has access and can stay informed. You might even surround it with children's artwork or photos that connect to the newsletter's theme.
- Highlight newsletter activities during family communication. Whether through your family engagement app, daily reports, or pickup conversations, suggest an activity—like a song to sing, a sign to practice, or a letter to find at home.
- Invite family feedback. Ask parents what they've tried from the newsletter and what they've enjoyed most. Their insights help you tailor communication and help us continue improving our materials.
When families and educators work together, children thrive. Consistent, open communication fosters trust and builds a shared understanding of each child's learning journey. By integrating Family Newsletters into your program, you're not just sharing updates—you're building strong, lasting partnerships that support every child's growth across both home and school.