Given the opportunity to welcome a child and her family to a daycare would encourage me to do additional research if necessary. In this instance, I have determined that the child's country of origin is The Philippines. As I know very little about the country's traditions, religion, and citizen's mannerism, I would begin by researching it's history and common facts. To work effectively and create a positive relationship with the child and family, I would contact The Philippines' embassy where I reside. I would gain more information from the people that work there and would, additionally, inquire about a possible Filipino support community that exists in my area. Once being able to contact the support group, I would learn more from them, go to their gatherings, keep in touch with them throughout the child's education, as well as set up meetings for the family to join them in order to become more acquainted with surroundings, customs, and have a sense of family away from their home. I would have several conversations with the family to understand more about their family dynamic, which may also include dietary or learning concerns, social or health issues, and how I can best help support them when they arrive. I would also inquire directly with the family (once understood from other Filipino representatives that it is permissible to ask personal questions) as to any customary traditions that they would like to highlight with regards to, for example, gender or religion, thus allowing me to research further about these traditions and set up potential activities and celebrations upon their arrival. Preparing for a family's arrival would potentially create a welcoming environment where children can feel accepted. Children in the current daycare would be briefed about certain customs and the situation so that they are able to welcome the child to class without creating microaggressions. It would also potentially allow the family and me to establish a foundation where communication and dialogue positively influences the child's learning and education. Furthermore, I would be able to gain more knowledge about a community that could lead to greater cultural awareness for myself in general. Thursday, April 17, 2014
Welcoming Families from Around the World
Given the opportunity to welcome a child and her family to a daycare would encourage me to do additional research if necessary. In this instance, I have determined that the child's country of origin is The Philippines. As I know very little about the country's traditions, religion, and citizen's mannerism, I would begin by researching it's history and common facts. To work effectively and create a positive relationship with the child and family, I would contact The Philippines' embassy where I reside. I would gain more information from the people that work there and would, additionally, inquire about a possible Filipino support community that exists in my area. Once being able to contact the support group, I would learn more from them, go to their gatherings, keep in touch with them throughout the child's education, as well as set up meetings for the family to join them in order to become more acquainted with surroundings, customs, and have a sense of family away from their home. I would have several conversations with the family to understand more about their family dynamic, which may also include dietary or learning concerns, social or health issues, and how I can best help support them when they arrive. I would also inquire directly with the family (once understood from other Filipino representatives that it is permissible to ask personal questions) as to any customary traditions that they would like to highlight with regards to, for example, gender or religion, thus allowing me to research further about these traditions and set up potential activities and celebrations upon their arrival. Preparing for a family's arrival would potentially create a welcoming environment where children can feel accepted. Children in the current daycare would be briefed about certain customs and the situation so that they are able to welcome the child to class without creating microaggressions. It would also potentially allow the family and me to establish a foundation where communication and dialogue positively influences the child's learning and education. Furthermore, I would be able to gain more knowledge about a community that could lead to greater cultural awareness for myself in general. 
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Nicole good post! I love the fact that you have researched their traditions and mannerisms before the initial meeting. Also, asking permission through the representatives to ensure a sign of respect is a great way to gain information through the proper channels.
ReplyDeleteHi Nicole,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading how important it was for you to immerse yourself within the culture and traditions of families from within your program. The idea of contacting the embassy in order to learn more about gatherings and resources was a wonderful idea. This is an easy resource which I feel many of us forget about, yet it offers great ideas for both educators and families whom are establishing new roots within our society. Thank you for sharing!