That is the condition that many young children are now experiencing in the United States. By the year 2000 cultural diversity in child care will be the norm. Research and practice have shown that for infants and toddlers to prosper in child care, their experiences should reflect a sensitivity by the caregiver to the home culture. Early caregiving in a child's native language and within familiar cultural rules makes child care a secure and supportive experience for the child. Culturally sensitive care influences positively the development of self-esteem, social competence, language, and intellectual competence.
Cultural sensitivity is an ongoing process that continues to develop over time.
Support of a child's full participation in his or her home culture is vital to optimal development. The guide is divided into four sections, including a suggested resources section. The contributing authors present information, strategies, and insights for caregivers working with infants and toddlers from culturally diverse communities. The authors share the belief that commonalities and differences are fundamental to all humanity and that cultural diversity brings a rich mosaic to life. The purpose of the guide is to help readers analyze their own culturally driven behaviors, expand their ability to accept children and adults as they are, and be more appropriate in their response to people from different cultures.