The five ways in which I would prepare myself to be culturally responsive to the family is:
· First I must learn about their dominant language.
· Create an atmosphere in the classroom that will promote inclusiveness (i.e. post pictures of familiar things in different countries, have a day that we invite families in to share different cultural beliefs, foods etc.)
· Learn about acceptable practices in the family’s home (i.e. How do they care for their children, what are acceptable eating practices)
· If the family is not religious or does not have any religious beliefs I will ensure that the lesson include diversity so that when they are unable to participate in a religious celebration other activities will be planned in which they can participate
· What is your country’s culture in regards to adult child interaction (i.e. is it okay for children to speak with an adult without being prompted, is eye contact acceptable are handshakes and hugs acceptable?)
These preparations will be if benefit because it will first show genuine interest to the family our willingness to learn about them and their cultural practices, it will encourage the students to make the young child feel accepted and it will also develop a strong relationship between the family, school and child which eventually will become a resource.
Carmen,
ReplyDeleteGreat post! You have posted some great ideas on how to my the family feel welcomed and comfortable!
Carmen,
ReplyDeleteYou list many good ways of including the family in your program. I like that you would include their religion. I think it is important for programs to know about different religion to ensure that we do not scheudle important events during a time parents may not be able to participate. As a program, we should be able to be culturally diverse. Yet, I often find that teachers do not know how. Pictures are only one way but how about finding out and preparing foods from all over the world? I like to taste different things and my son is exposed to as many cultures as I can think of. As an educator, we have to think about how we can promote respect for others.
Hi Carmen,
ReplyDeleteI like how you mentioned that making the family feel welcomed will not only show respect to them, but will encourage our other students to welcome them through our example. You are right, welcoming a family, learning about them, and valuing their culture can help strengthen relationships with them and will ultimately help us learn more about how to best support their child's development.
I also really like your idea about posting pictures of things from different countries, what a great way to show children various parts of the world!
Hi Carmen,I love your post.YOur idea is to let them learn about every aspect from relegion,food to their education.
ReplyDelete