It determines whether children learn to feel proud or ashamed of their heritage. It lays the foundation for children to grow up speaking English as well as the language of their home. You're creating the first group environment most children encounter outside their home, and your challenge is to make it inclusive and respectful. One key factor for success will be your ability to work well with children's families, some of whom may not speak English. The following four strategies can help.
Orientation is a great place to start.
Because this is often the first meeting between you and the parents of the children in your program, it can set the tone for your ongoing relationship and lay the foundation for open communication on sensitive topics, including race and culture. If you didn't discuss diversity at the start of the school year, it's not too late. Remember to ask for information from families even when you and they are from a similar racial or ethnic group. In any group, opinions and practices may vary. A family's customs may differ due to religion, length of time in the United States, and other factors.