Welcoming Families from around the World

The country I chose was Italy for my family of origin.  I chose this country because I have always been curious about the lifestyle and the family culture.  The five ways in which I would prepare for my family and be responsive to their needs is the following:

Is doing some basic research on the culture in which I learn the family structure and that Italians are very intense and do a lot of arm touching and want eye contact at all times.  (So when I do speak with them face to face I will understand their demeanor and the hierarchy of the family).  I will have a translator at the initial meeting and all forth coming meetings.

Another way I would prepare is understanding some basic Italian language and finding out where they are from in Italy because there is different dialect depending on where you live in the country. This will be helpful in paperwork also as I prepare it in their native language to make it easier for them comprehend as well as feel more comfortable. 

The third way I would prepare is incorporating books and music in their native language as well as a lending library in which the parents can read to their child in the native language.  I would continue to encourage the native language with the parents and child.

The fourth way is to visit an authentic Italian restaurant and become familiar with the foods and customs of the culture.  Educate myself through experiences and become aware of the differences.

The last way I would prepare myself to be culturally responsive is understanding their religion and celebrations of holidays.  I want to make sure that I am responsive to their customs and use them to educate others in the classroom as well as give the family an opportunity to come in as guest speakers. 

I believe the items or extension of the family’s culture into the classroom will ease the possible tension of the family and make them as well as the child comfortable in the environment.  I want the family to know they are the child’s first educator and that my classroom is an extension of his or her learning from home.  All of these incorporations will help make a solid connection with the family and child and build trust.   After all, trust and a solid foundation are the essence to building a true educational experience, because we all know that early childhood sets the foundation to a positive learning experience for children and their families.