In my scenario this week, my family will hail from Sao Tome, which is a located near the Equator.
5 ways that I will prepare myself to be culturally responsive towards this family:
- Research the different languages that are spoken in Sao Tome and try to learn a few introductory words or phrases. Also try to find someone that speaks the language and who may be able to help me communicate with the family.
- Learn about the economic conditions of the country and the area of the country that my family is from. Try to find out what type of work the family was involved in before they left Sao Tome and offer support as they transition to the job climate in America. It will be important to learn how they view work and the different family responsibilities as related to work.
- Research the education system and determine if the family has been involved in any type of early childhood education program prior to immigrating to America. When meeting with the family discuss their educational experiences and expectations and how I can best support their ideals and goals for their child and family.
- Talk with them about their family relationships and how their family relationships work. I would ask about intergenerational relationships as well as the role of children in their culture.
- I would reflect on any biases that I might have that would hinder my relationship with the family and work on ways to overcome the biases.
By trying to have a deeper understanding of the family’s culture and finding ways to communicate with them and learn about their goals, values, and ideals, I believe that I would be able to convey to them that I want to serve their child and family in the best way possible. I think that I would be able to help them become more comfortable with our culture and they would be able to teach me a lot about their culture. Win! Win!
Hi Monette,
ReplyDeleteYou have some great suggestions. I really like numbers 3&4 because they allow you to get a better understanding of the child and the family and it also would tell me that you really care about my child and his/her transition to an American school.
Hi Monette,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your post. You always share such insightful thoughts. I especially enjoyed number five because it is very important to examine our selves especially before encountering those who are different from ourselves. Many times we are unable to build what could very well be great relationships with others because of our own biases.
Thanks again,
Berdetta
Hi Monette. I have never heard of that country, but my daughter-in-law has visited that country as a child. You have great ideas here, especially the one where you discuss their educational experiences and how you can support their ideals and goals. As educators, it is our goal to provide support in everything a family and children need and can do. Great post, Monette. Like you quoted, it’s a “Win! Win!” situation.
ReplyDeleteMonette, I like your choice of country (even though I have never heard of it before :) ) Your five preparations that you would take is great too! I also chose to use learning some phrases from their language too, but I did not think, for some reason, to get an interpreter. I think this would be a necessity if I was working with a family from a country that I have never even heard of before. Great choice!
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