This week, I have been asked to imagine that I will be working with a family that has recently emigrated from a country I know nothing about. As the demographics in our community changes, this is becoming more common. As educators and advocates for children and families, we need to plan for working with these families and prepare for their arrival in our programs.
The country I chose is India. Best Buy is a local company that employs several professionals from India at its headquarters. As a result, we have enrolled several of these families in our program. In order to better prepare myself and my team, these are some things that I would do. India is rich with culture and history. I would spend time reviewing the basic background of the culture, including religions, traditions, and customs. I would use websites like Wikipedia, the U.S. Department of State, and Lonely Planet. Next, I would explore local organizations and resources like the India Association of Minnesota to connect the new family with support services if needed. I would secure an interpreter if the family did not speak English so that we could communicate effectively before the child starts in the program and after to ensure a smooth transition. I would have a meeting with the teaching staff to talk about the culture and traditions of the family. Finally, I would support the classroom in creating an environment that is respectful and engaging for the child and the family. This includes providing images, books, activities, and learning experiences that reflect the child's home culture.
Through all of this preparation, I would hope that it would increase our confidence in interacting with the family and make the transition of the family into the program smooth and seamless. In addition, I would hope that it would create an environment that would encourage the family to be involved in the program, adding a richness to the classroom that will benefit the children and the staff.
Katherine, Your blog post was insightful. If a family would be in any situation, I can tell that you would be helpful. I did not know Best Buy were helpful in that kind of way. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteKatherine,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your preparation for receiving the child from India into your classroom. I didn't know Best Buy employs professionals from India. This was some new information to me. I believe as early childhood professionals, if we are notified ahead of time about getting a new student and having information about that child before the child enters the classroom will definitely be beneficial for the transitioning of the child into a new environment.
Katherine, the language barrier is the most difficult in understanding the differences in familes. If you are in the position to able to either afford a translator or are in a region where some to translate is available that is great. I know from living in a rural area that it is not easy for childcare providers to be able to meet those needs.
ReplyDeleteKatherine,
ReplyDeleteI did not know that bit of information about Best Buy - thanks for sharing that.
I think communication is the key for a successful transition. I like the idea of having of having materials from India available in the classroom, but I have found that it is difficult to get appropriate books for young children.
Katherine,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed the ideas you choose, in particular, the outreach services including a translator. These are very important ways to make connections with and for families if they needed them.
I have enjoyed reading your blog this week. You have provided some very detailed information.
ReplyDelete