When getting to know a child's family, what is the first step?

The first step in getting to know a child's family involves establishing a connection and building a relationship, which is critical for effective communication and understanding. Introducing yourself to the family is essential because it creates a welcoming atmosphere and encourages openness from the family. This introduction sets the tone for future interactions and establishes trust, making it easier for families to share information about their child and their needs.

Discussing academic performance and checking for developmental milestones are important conversations to have after establishing rapport. They typically occur later in the relationship when trust is built, providing context to the discussions. Conducting a family background survey is also valuable, but it is more effective when a foundation of trust and communication has already been established through personal interactions.