Our Head of Training & Curriculum, Bernadette Rhoden has shared her invaluable insights on what it takes to successfully facilitate a SFSC programme. Bernadette outlines ten key steps to ensure each session runs smoothly and effectively. From planning with co-facilitators to building rapport with venue staff, Bernadette’s tips are essential reading for anyone involved in delivering SFSC.
Ten things I always do before delivering SFSC to parents:
- Plan for Different Developmental Stages: With my co-facilitator, I prepare examples for each session that reflect the various developmental stages: 0-2, 2-4, 5-6, 7-11, 12-16, and 17+. I incorporate local themes, such as schools, shops, and leisure facilities, to make the examples relatable, and select them based on the group composition.
- Stay Ahead in Planning: I use the programme component page to identify the key focus areas under the five main headings. I plan two sessions in advance to ensure I’m always a week ahead, allowing for a smoother and more focused delivery.
- Build Rapport at the Venue: Upon arrival at the venue, I sign in and inform my contact of my arrival. I check for any updates regarding housekeeping. On my way out, I do the same. Building rapport with centre staff is crucial, as they play a key role in supporting or undermining the success of the programme.
- Coordinate with Crèche Staff: I always check in with the Crèche and its staff to ensure everything is running smoothly. If the babies are content, the parents can relax and fully engage in the session
- Conduct Health and Safety Checks: After completing a full risk assessment and Health and Safety check beforehand, I do a visual inspection of all areas that parents will access, including the WC, on the day of the session to ensure everything is in order.
- Prepare Venue Staff: I make sure all staff are informed about the session, especially during the early sessions, so they can direct parents appropriately. It’s important that nervous or first-time parents are supported upon arrival, avoiding any confusion like hearing, “I don’t know anything about it,” from staff.
- Double-Check Resources: Before the session starts, I ensure all materials are ready: audio-visual equipment, USBs, marker pens, flip charts, and a clock. I also have personal essentials like throat lozenges, water, tissues, and glasses. All handouts, including responses to questions from previous sessions, are ready to go. It’s important to follow up on any parked questions from prior sessions.
- Confirm Refreshment Arrangements: I check that the refreshments or meals are organized and ready for the session.
- Experience the Parents’ Perspective: I sit in different spots around the room—the seat farthest away, nearest the door, in the middle, etc.—to see the room from the parents’ point of view, with and without the presentation on. This helps me ensure that their experience is comfortable and accessible.
- Express Gratitude and Focus on Purpose: Just before starting the session, I take a moment to express gratitude—both internally and out loud—for the opportunity to share the curriculum with such great parents or facilitators. I remind myself of my purpose: to be of service by sharing this curriculum. At this point, I usually switch off or silence my phone to remain fully present.
