Welcoming Families From Around the World

Our world is growing to be a very diverse setting.  In our world today, about 165 different countries exist and 150 of those are represented here in the United States of America.  Early childhood professionals will be teaching children from many diverse cultures.  It is our responsibility to be culturally responsive to the needs of the child and of the child's family.



If a family immigrated from Norway  to the United States and chose to come to our early childhood center I would to my best to make them feel comfortable, safe, and welcomed.  Unfortunately I don't know a thing about Norway or it's people.  There would be a lot of work in preparing for their visit/stay.  The center would have to be culturally responsive and sensitive.  The following would have to be completed prior to the child's visit:

• research information about Norway (i.e. various customs and belief's)
• find the language of origin and learn basic words and sayings to help with communication
• inform and prepare staff to help with an easy effective transition
• create a culturally responsive environment (books, pictures, etc.)
• conference with family to get to know the child, family dynamics/background/customs, as well as expectations
• a translator or community members that will be responsive to the child and his/her family needs.  

Children and their families must feel that the center is safe and welcoming.  When the student feels valued by their teacher they are more than likely to work harder and comply with rules.  effective teachers are also effective communicators.  Listening and communicating with the student and family increases their learning effectiveness and experience.  We must develop positive relationships and hold high expectations for all students.  Doing these will help a child from another country of origin feel wanted, safe, respected and have a smooth transition into the unknown.