Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Early Childhood Practice Exam

Under what circumstance would an early childhood teacher likely share ongoing information with a social worker regarding a child?

1. The child has recently immigrated to the United States

2. The child is transitioning from foster care back to family

3. Childcare involves babysitters due to guardians' work schedules

4. The child's parents are undergoing divorce proceedings

The correct answer is: The child is transitioning from foster care back to family

In the context of early childhood education, sharing ongoing information with a social worker typically pertains to situations that require additional support and intervention for a child's well-being. When a child is transitioning from foster care back to their family, this situation often involves complex emotional, psychological, and social factors that necessitate collaboration between educators and social services. The early childhood teacher, in such cases, would need to monitor the child’s adaptation to the transition, ensure their emotional security, and provide appropriate educational support. The social worker plays a pivotal role in this process by facilitating communication and ensuring that the child's needs are met, making ongoing sharing of information critical for a successful and supportive transition. While the other situations may involve challenges, they do not inherently create the same level of need for ongoing and structured collaboration with a social worker as a transition from foster care does, where the child’s safety, mental health, and stability are at the forefront of concern.