You are an educator in an ECEC Service. When Evan (4 years) and Rebecca (2 years) first came to your service a year ago their parents were both very involved with their children and both signed the enrolment form. Since then, the parents have separated. They care very much for the children and have drawn up a formal parenting plan which lists both parents as eligible carers.
One day the mother (Rosie) confides in you that she is in a new relationship and that she left her husband (David) because he was having an affair with his secretary. Her new partner cares about her and the children and wants them to become a stable family unit. She asks that you don't allow the children's father to pick them up from care, but to only let the children go with her or the new partner. She explains that she feels that this is in the best interest of the children as it will prevent them from being confused about their new family situation and will help them adjust to the recent changes in their lives.
Rebecca has not obviously reacted to the situation with the new partner but Evan's behaviour indicates he is extremely distressed. His mother says that he is having bad dreams and wakes up crying and calling for daddy. He avoids contact with the new partner and clings to the mother at home. At day care he is displaying aggressive behaviour with other children. He pushes the other children, yells and occasionally bites them. He has also reverted to tantrums when angry or frustrated, throwing himself to the floor or ground while crying and kicking.
You are really concerned about this situation which is becoming increasingly difficult to manage. You are not sure what to do because you have limited experience as an educator and have only just started studying. The other educators are not aware of the situation and can't work out why Evan's behaviour has changed. They are becoming increasingly frustrated and angry with him. You are unsure of whether to share the information the mother has told you. You want to respect confidentiality, but you also feel that you need to talk to someone about the situation. You want to be fair to the children, your co-workers and the parents.
Someone help my assessment please~~~~~
a) If both parents have signed the enrolment form, what are your legal responsibilities under contract law?
b) Explain if it would be appropriate to tell the other educators / coordinator about the family’s situation. Why / Why Not?
c) Describe your duty of care obligations to the children/family.
Scenario
IMPORTANT: Student's support in our forum will now be a part of our Premium Subscription service. This means students who have purchased a Premium Subscription will now be offered complimentary support in our Student Forums by us. This will only be available to students who have purchased a Premium Subscription. Click here to subscribe.
