Since I know nothing about the new culture, I
would start by familiarizing myself with the country of Singapore, learning about its location in the world, languages spoken, ethnicities, religions, and
celebrations. Such information can be easily obtained from reliable websites
such as the country’s official page or the Unites States’ CIA page.
Next, I would prepare my staff for the incoming child and her family
by sharing the new information I gained from my search, but also give them a
chance to share what they know and reflect on any stereotypes, assumptions, or prejudices we might
have about the culture. Reminding them to steer away from such practices and to
approach the child and the family as a blank canvas that will develop as the
relationship grows.
Further, i would search bookstores, libraries, or the internet for
children books in the child’s language or posters that might have the child’s
culture represented and include it in the classroom environment.
Another way is to prepare children in the classroom for the incoming
new friend and assign a buddy who is outgoing and friendly to be the welcoming friend
when the child arrives. Also include a map of the world and talk to the children about the area in which the new friend has moved from.
Finally, prepare activities on the child’s first day that accommodate
differentiated learning styles in order to help the child adjust to the new environment.
Once the family arrives, with the help of a questionnaire, invist time to learn about the child’s cultural identities, the family’s expectations, and
their preferences directly from them.
Furthermore, encourage the child and the parents to bring items from their
culture to share with the class, insist on everyday items that could be similar
to others’ but hold a significance in the child’s culture or different and are
specific to the child’s culture.
While these steps can help ease the child’s
transition and support their social identity, there is nothing more important
than one’s own attitude towards diversity. Thus, the most critical step to take
is indeed from within. 
Rola, you hit upon some amazing points. I especially liked that you included comments from your staff. While you were explaining to them about the new student from Singapore, you are, also, giving them an opportunity to share their excitement or questions regarding this child and his or family. If your staff are honest and up-front with you, their questions will ease the child's arrival, assuring a positive experience for all. Listening to our staff is super important, and often, it's not done enough. Thanks for sharing, Rola!
ReplyDeleteRola,
ReplyDeleteI think that this child will feel very comfortable in your classroom.I think it is great that you will assign a buddy to the knew child. I'm sure that it will help the child to feel very comfortable in her knew classroom. Great!
Rola,
ReplyDeleteYou have some really great ideas to help the new child transition into your child care setting. Purchasing materials to help enhance your classroom in the language of the child is a great idea. I also like that you would ask the family to bring in items from their culture to share. This will allow you, your staff, and the children to learn more about their identity as well as make the family feel welcomed into your center. Finally, I like that you mention the fact of knowing your own attitude towards diversity.
Rola,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your post this week, especially in regards to being prepared for this new child and their family. You really had some great ideas and suggestions that I definitely think will make this transition go a lot more smoothly, not only for the child, but for the family too. I also think your ideas of having a buddy system, as well as providing the child with the opportunity to bring items from home to share that represents their culture, are fantastic ideas. And I do agree with you that the best support comes from supporting one's own social identity, that does indeed come from within. Great Job!
Sylvia