This course is designed to enhance students' understanding of, and empathy for, the families and communities with whom they will be working. The child development professional’s relationship with parents and other family members is discussed, together with the various roles of family members in early childhood programs. The course explores the child development worker's role in fostering a relationship of mutual respect, enhancing the parent-child relationship, and serving as an advocate for young children and their families.

Prerequisites: ELCC 111, ELCC 112, ELCC 122.