One country I know nothing about is Uganda.
If I had a family from Uganda entering my program, the first
thing I would do is find out what language is spoken in that country and begin
to have the program information translated. If there are multiple languages spoken, then I would ask the
director if they know which language the family speaks.
I would also look for and then contact a Uganda community
group in the area. By doing a
quick internet search, I was able to find several such organizations in North
Carolina. Talking with members of
the community from Uganda, I can learn a little about their culture before
meeting the family. Learning
things like whether it’s appropriate to shake hands or not can help make the
first meeting with the new family go smoothly.
To help make the classroom more inviting and comfortable for
the new child I would fine books that focus on children from Uganda. These books can also help prepare the
children currently enrolled for the new student. I would also contact the resource library, a local program
that lends classroom materials and toys to families and educational programs,
and borrow puzzles, dress up clothes, and instruments that show the Uganda
culture.
Preparing for new families in this was makes the transition
easier for everyone. The currently
enrolled children are expecting a change and are more accepting of the new
child. I am more aware of the new
families needs, though the only way to really know what a family needs or
expects from the program I would talk with the new family. Lastly, the family can see that they
are accepted from the first day because the background research and work are
evident. This helps the family
transition without feeling like an outsider.
Sarah,
ReplyDeleteYou made an important comment about the currently enrolled children. It is important to involve them in the preparation, this would erase any form of bullying in their minds and would encourage a welcoming attitude from them too. You also made a point on acceptability! This is quite important for the new family as it is part of making them feel at home. Nice post!
Hi Sarah,
ReplyDeleteIt would be great if we always had that prep time for families that move in. Preparing other children and families for a new classmate sometimes can be very spur-of-the-moment. This is where a teacher sets the tone and the children can take their cues from the teacher and other adults in the classroom.
Great post!
Sarah,
ReplyDeleteI agree that if the timeframe allows for it, that it would be important to involve the current students in the preparation. I love the idea about sharing children's literature with these students to help prepare them. Thanks for sharing!