Country of Origin “South Africa”
Five ways to be culturally responsive to this family:
One of the first things I would do is learn what
language they spoke communicating with this new family will be very important.
I would research information about their language and reach out to maybe a
local university, church organizations, and non-profits who possibly work with
immigrant families, as well as they can possibly assist with interpreting. I
would also reach out to social services to see what assistance is possibly
available for this family. It is necessary to obtain resources they may need to
help them settle into the United States.
I would find out about their culture as it relates
to education. I would research to see what their education system if there was any,
and what it consisted of also what ways I can relate any education to the
United States. I would see what resources I could obtain that were in close
relation to what their child was possible accustomed to. I would search
information on what their values from their native land that they may
incorporate in their home and life in general. It’s important to study their
values and see what their values may be in relation to the United States. I
would also like to understand the role of the children and build upon what they
may feel is necessary for their child.
Benefits to help both me and the families:
I would hope these preparations would allow me to
know that this family would know they are supported and have a great
professional who cares about their well-being as well as their child, one who
is looking out for the best interest of their child. I would hope preparing has
made the transition for them a comfortable experience. I think by ensuring they
receive needed resources, housing, food, and items needed for survival. If the
child is in an environment they are able to conform to they are allowed to
continue to be exposed to things from their culture in the classroom this will
allow for a smooth transition as well.
Interesting post, I also chose a family from Africa. I like the idea of reaching into the community to establish support. It reminds me of the proverb that says" it takes a village to raise a child". Involving teachers, community, and family will definitely help establish and help make transition easier for families new to the country.
ReplyDeleteHi Jennifer
ReplyDeleteYour blog was very informative and I really enjoyed reading the very positive ways in which you would welcome this family. Communication is very important when dealing with other cultures. I also feel that professionals should incorporate materials from various countries within the classroom environment to make children feel more like a part of the class. Again good post.
Jennifer,
ReplyDeleteI thought your point about knowing how their culture relates to education was an important one. It may help you understand where the family is coming from and how education may be different in their home country. It may also help you prepare the family for things that may be new to them but we take for granted.
Thanks,
Danielle