Five ways in which I will prepare myself to be culturally responsive towards this family will be to research and label everyday items in the classroom such as, (chair, door, restroom, etc.) in the primary language spoken in the home, religious beliefs that may be practiced here it may present a conflict as it relates to our policy practiced in the facility, provide pictures that are related to their country, etiquette practices regarding customs such as, "Across Genders-men should wait to see if a woman extends her hand, Greetings-should never be rushed, take time to inquire about the person's family, health, job, etc., or Only-use the right hand for eating" (Kwintessential). I would also attempt to learn one or two greetings in their primary language such as, "Welcome-Soo dhowow, Hello-Iska warran, and My name is...-Magacaygu waa..." (Kwintessential).
My hope would be that these preparations will benefit my new family and myself by showing them the initiative taken to learn about their country and customs as to welcome them in their new environment. I am hopeful that they will have a positive experience once they have met my team and I, and will be open to share more with us. My goal will be to make the family as a whole feel comfortable, safe, and to think of their new surroundings as home.
I will benefit by learning the customs of a country that I would not have researched had I not been given the opportunity by chance. I would feel joy knowing that my team and I put forth the effort to make a family feel at home in a new country.
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Hello Shelita! I love your idea of labeling things in the language of the migrant family. I know from experience that this is very helpful for the child and family. We have Hispanic children who are learning English in our classes at my Head Start program. We label just as you, as well as recite letters, count, and review colors in English and Spanish! You are well on your way with becoming a culturally responsive teacher! Great job and Great post!
ReplyDeleteShelita,
ReplyDeleteGreat ideas! We label so much normally in our day to day routines, so I think adding in a new language would be an awesome way to incorporate the child into the room. I found your ideas on learning key phrases one that would be important too, just for basic communication with the child.
Awesome post!
Kate