Welcoming families from around the World

I chose to imagine that I will be welcoming a child from Indonesia into my early childhood program. I thought of several ways I could prepare myself to welcome the child and their family into the program.

• First of all, I would learn some basic facts about Indonesia. Being aware of the fact that Indonesia is made up of more than 17,500 islands, is home to more than 300 ethnic groups and that the culture of the people vary depending on which part of the country they are from, will ensure that I don’t make assumptions or generalizations about the family based just on what I have predominantly heard about the country.  

• Being able to communicate with the child and the family effectively is essential. Since Indonesia has 742 languages and dialects, I would find out the language that the family speaks and whether or not they are able to communicate in English. If the family is unable to communicate in English I would ensure that an interpreter is available. I would also make myself aware of the proper etiquette in communicating such as the correct way to greet individuals, body language implications etc. to ensure I am being respectful in all my communications with them.

• While Indonesia is known to be a predominantly Muslim country, there are several other religions practiced in Indonesia each with their own beliefs, values and practices. Therefore I would find out about the family’s religious beliefs and practices to ensure that the practices within the center and classrooms are respectful of their beliefs and make any accommodations if necessary.

• Since it is important for both the child and family to be comfortable in the school environment, I would take measures to ensure that the classroom environment reflects their culture. I will make sure that there are photos, pictures, books, and materials that represent this child and his family on their first day in the program so that they feel valued within the program. I would also take any dietary restrictions the child may have into consideration and try include familiar food on the class snack and lunch menus. I would take the time to talk to the rest of the class about the incoming child and their family so that they too can help the child feel welcomed. Once the family settles into the program, I will invite them to share music, stories, and other important aspects of their culture in the classroom.

• It is important to build respectful relationships with families and be aware of the individual needs of families. Therefore, I would take the time to meet with the family to build a relationship with them and find out more about their family culture. I would find out more about their values and beliefs, their family structure, their expectations of the program and their educational goals for their child, the best ways to communicate with them and any other information that they think might assist the program in ensuring that the family has a positive experience.

I believe that these preparations will be helpful in making the child and their family feel welcomed into the program and feel that they are valued. The knowledge that their family’s culture is important to the program and is reflected within the program will help them feel more at ease since they will see that they are not just being expected to just conform to the dominant American culture. In addition, these preparations will help me feel more confident and competent in welcoming this family and building a positive relationship with them and allow me to be more sensitive and responsive to the needs of this family.