1) Research: First, I would look up some information and read about the traditional customs in Mexico. I would also talk to other families that I know that have emigrated to the United States from Mexico, asking what types of things might be helpful in caring for the child.
2) Visual Representation: Next, I would search the library for books and other items to bring into the classroom that may help represent the child's language and country of origin.
3) Meet: Next, I would meet with the child's family in order to learn more about the child's personal life and family culture. If the family did not speak English I would make sure to have a translator available. I would ask questions about the child's developmental needs and culture.
4)Language: Next, I would practice pronouncing the names of the child and family in order to show respect for them. I would also learn how to say a few welcoming words to try to make them feel more comfortable in the classroom. I would also post a few welcoming words in their language.
5) Invitation: Next, I would invite the family to bring items into the classroom for show-and-tell or ask if they would like to speak to the class about living in Mexico.
By taking these five steps, I hope to make the child and family feel respected and welcome in a new place. I hope to learn more about the child in order to help him be more successful in the classroom, promote his development, and meet his needs. By bringing in items and inviting the family to come into the classroom to share I hope to help the other children learn about another culture and learn to accept and honor differences in others.
I like these ideas! Practicing the pronunciation is something a lot of people don't think about. I teach and substitute in Chicago in a school district with many children whose families are from Mexico or Poland. I see a lot of teachers who don't even try to attempt the cultural pronunciation. For instance in Spanish the name David is pronounced "Dah-veed," but a lot of teachers will insist on using the English pronunciation, and soon that is what everyone is calling the child.
ReplyDeleteHi Mary,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing. I find your steps very beneficial to the child and their family, as well as the children, families, and early childhood professionals in the program setting. It shows the dedication the early childhood educator has within the field and very evident towards the family. As a teacher, the information collected is an opportunity for all. The child and family learn about the culture and customs of those living in their new country while those children, families, and early childhood professionals learn about a whole new world from one special family. It is important to take the time to gather information about the families culture and any beneficial information to make the transition smooth for both the child and family as a unit. It shows the family you willingness to learn something new and respect them for being different and what they have to offer to the world around them.
Mary,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your post. You have well-planned your preparation for your family arrival from Mexico.I think diversity is always present, even among groups of people who look like they are from the same background, race, or culture. We as an educator for starters must dig a little deeper to find generational, religious, economics, gender, age, and ability differences. We must listen to what parents want for their children and knowing ourselves can help us better understand others.