The name of “my” family’s country of origin is Kazakhstan. To prepare myself to be culturally responsive towards this family, I would:
- Locate the country on a map and learn more about the country's people, history, language,politics, and religion. I found the Department of State's website useful. Visit http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5487.htm
- Learn about the family's living situation, home language(s), and any other background information prior to meeting with them.
- Schedule a meeting with the family and other staff (translator, home-to-school coordinators, etc...) to introduce them to the school, curriculum, and expectations. Also, this would be a great time to learn more about their culture as well as answer any questions they may have.
- welcome and invite the family to visit the classroom and/or eat lunch with their child.
- Prepare other children to meet the new family by learning about Kazahkstan together. Also, I would incorporate a class activity that would allow the children to learn about the new child as well as share about themselves.
Maggie,
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of the country! If they speak a very unique language, you may have trouble finding an interpreter. I like the way you are trying to get to know about the culture and the family. Maybe you could serve a favorite dish from Kazakhstan for lunch on the child's first day, to make him/her feel more at home.
Mary L.
Maggie,
ReplyDeleteI really like your idea to invite the family in to eat lunch with their children and their peers. Lunch time is a crucial time in a child's life and the first couple of weeks for a child that is new to the environment can be very stressful, having their family there will surly serve as a sense of security for the child. I think you make a great point in stating that you would hope that the family would know that you "care." Sometimes that is all that is needed, nothing more, nothing less, just to know that someone cares.
Maggie,
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of the parents coming to meet with you and introducing the curriculum and preparing other students. I think that sharing lunch with the parents is also a great way for the child to feel comfortable on the first day.