Calling All EC Parents! Parent Connect, Open Day, and Doctoral Study

Doctoral Study: Participants Needed

Dear Early Childhood Families,

My name is Amy Thames, and for those of you I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting yet, I’m excited to introduce myself. I’m currently pursuing my doctoral degree and working toward completing my dissertation this November.

My research focuses on how parents from different cultural backgrounds view family involvement in early childhood education, specifically in the context of international schools in Shanghai. The goal is to help educators create programs that are more inclusive and culturally responsive. Studies show that when families are engaged in their child’s learning, it can lead to stronger academic performance, increased motivation, better social development, and fewer behavior challenges (Xie et al., 2021).

To complete this important research, I’m looking to speak with 20–25 parents who are willing to share their perspectives in a short one-on-one Zoom interview. These conversations will help bring diverse voices into the conversation about how schools can better support families from all backgrounds.

If you're interested in participating, please take a look at the attached flyer and feel free to reach out to me. Your insights would be incredibly valuable to my study—and to educators working with families like yours.

Warmly,
Amy Thames

 

April 30 Parent Connect Event on Transition to PK, K, and Grade 1

Our next Parent Connect event will feature a Parent Panel comprised of current parents in our Early Childhood and Elementary School divisions. Want to know what to expect in Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and Grade 1? Then, don't miss this important session next week! See our flier for more information.

4.19.25 EC/ES Open Day

On Saturday, April 19, the Early Childhood and Elementary School divisions co-hosted an Open Day for prospective parents with the Concordia Admissions and Enrolment Office. While potential new Concordia students spent time engaging in fun learning activities, their parents learned more about Early Childhood and Elementary School and took a tour of campus. We are thankful to the Teachers and Teaching Assistants who volunteered to support this special event. Thank you, Mrs. Cantwell, Ms. Wu, Ms. Feng, Ms. Hankins, Mrs. Thames, Ms. Chen, and our wonderful Admissions Office staff!