Lesson 1, Topic 1
In Progress

Incorporate Children’s Backgrounds and Interests

Incorporating and respecting children’s backgrounds, cultures, and interests fosters healthy relationships.  Collaborate with families.  Learn about individual backgrounds and interests to show you value and respect the family.  Learn to say hello in the family’s home language. Ask your families questions to gain a greater perspective with each new piece of information.  Find out each family’s unique story—exchange stories organically by starting the dialogue. “Traditionally, we do this…. What does it look like in your family?”.  You can create inclusivity within your program by incorporating knowledge of traditions and communication to adapt materials and programming to differing learning styles and cultural backgrounds.

Your goal is for every child to feel safe, secure and welcome. You can achieve this by continually learning, asking questions, and applying your knowledge. Try to have each child’s culture, background or interests represented so that all children see themselves in your program.