Do not underestimate the importance of deliberately creating a program that welcomes all children and their families. Children are deeply influenced by cultural socialization. Your attitudes and behaviors reflect your values, and children absorb these values. Your attitudes can have a powerful positive influence on children. It is important to commit to educating each unique child and to help all children learn to live together. As a professional you have a wonderful opportunity to be a positive role model in demonstrating respect for the dignity and worth of each family.
There are many ways to create a welcoming environment. * When having a family come in for the first time you should have them meet the staff to get acquainted with who will be caring for their child. It helps the parent feel more secure about leaving their children. Once they've all met then they can discuss some expectations from both sides to help make everything feel more situated. * Provide materials of different cultures. If the staff have an understanding of the diversity in the classroom it will make it easier for them to collaborate with the children and their families. * You can create a welcoming environment by being happy and supportive to all families and children. You can encourage staff by letting them know the importance of including the families in their children's development.
Optional Online Resources for Further Study
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Inclusion:
Your program should be designed to be inclusive of all children, including children with identified disabilities and special learning and developmental needs. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), effective 1992, states that people with disabilities, including physical, mental, and/or medical impairments, are entitled to equal rights in public accommodations, including early childhood programs. Necessary modifications will vary depending upon the type and number of children with differing needs and abilities who are served by your program. The inclusion of children with disabilities or special learning and developmental needs may necessitate lower staff-child ratios, specialized staff training, and special environmental arrangement and equipment. Staff should be familiar with available community resources and refer families for additional help when needed."
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