Sunday, December 16, 2012

Welcoming Families From Around the World

It is important for teachers to welcome students and their families to the classroom. I will be receiving a new student from India and want to make them feel welcome.  

Things I would want to do in order to prepare for my new student and his family are:

1. I would research about their country, culture, and customs. I would want to have a little insight into who they are and where they are from.

2. I would talk to an interpreter and learn about the child’s language. I would want to know what their customs were with language and communication in order to prevent from offending the family.

3. I would also want to discuss with the interpreter a time when everyone could meet in the child’s home and have the interpreter communicate in their native language. I feel this would let the family know I valued their culture and identity and hopefully make them more comfortable in communicating their thoughts, opinions, and concerns for their child and his education.

4. I would want to locate some books, posters, music, and materials that were about their country and use them in the classroom. I would want the child and his family to feel welcome when they arrive and come to the classroom.

5. I would learn about their country and then discuss with the family about volunteering in the classroom. I would love for the family and come and share with the class things about their country, culture, and family. I think having the family volunteering in the classroom will help students become more familiar with their culture and their identity. I feel this would allow everyone to learn from each other and to express how we value who they are. I think learning about their family and culture, communicating with them in their native language, and having them be actively involved in the classroom will create a positive relationship with the student and his family.

1 comment:

  1. Marcie,

    I enjoyed reading your post. I especially liked how you said you would discuss with the family about them volunteering in the classroom. It is so important for children and families to learn about other families and what better way than to interact with one another. Thanks for sharing.

    Crystal

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