Promoting Mental Health in Young Children - a Dialogue Based Approach in Kindergartens

Before the biannual parent-teacher meeting, both the kindergarten teacher and the parents will complete the Early Worry Questionnaire containing 39 items related to development and well-being of the individual child. For each item the respondents are asked to indicate if they during the last three months have been concerned. In the parent-teacher meeting they will discuss their possible concerns and try to reach an agreement on how to evaluate the child. If necessary, possible supportive interventions or further assessments locally in the kindergarten or in the public services will be decided.

This is an annual or biannual meeting that is prepared by the kindergarten teacher where (s)he reports on the child's appearance / behaviour and possible challenges as to development and behaviour from an educationalist's view. There are no common templates for the agenda of such meetings, however, usually the kindergarten teacher's perspective and opinion will dominate.