Effective communication between practitioners and families is essential to developing partnerships (Epstein, 2009). Varied provision such as foundation units, children's centres, private and voluntary nurseries and multi-agency family teams has further highlighted the need for effective communication between practitioners and parents (Fitzgerald and Kay 2008). However, irrespective the range of services and provision, the aim remains unchanged the need to ensure two-way communication, where all parties are respected and can contribute. The need to maintain positive communication is also important for children, as they can associate negative interactions with their behaviour, especially if there is poor communication between the home and setting (Whalley, 2007). For example, if there is disagreement between a parent and practitioner and this remains unresolved, a child may believe that this occurred because they have behaved poorly or done something has wrong. To maximize family partnership opportunities, communication needs be two-directional (with opportunities for each party to respond appropriately) take place formally and informally offer feedback to families about their child's progress find out the families' opinions about the setting or specific issue involve them in decision-making processes. To meet these expectations, it can be useful to plan in advance how contacts will be made with each individual family. An example of this is provided in Figure 8.2, which outlines a planned programme for formal and informal communication. This represent a fundamental change, but Malaguzzi may (1998: 69-70) argues that practitioners: Must leave behind an isolated silent mode of working that leaves no traces. Instead they must discover ways to communicate and document the children's