PITC Module IV - Culture, Family
and Providers
Since the family is the most important influence
and support in a child's life, it is so important for the childcare provider and
the family to make decisions together. Just as important is the fact that an
infant is developing a sense of who they are, where they come from, and how they
are valued.
Recognizing and respecting the cultural beliefs
that are a part of that identity formation is absolutely crucial. Communicating
in an infant's home language is also important. Module IV helps providers
recognize their own cultural perspectives; the feelings associated with those;
how to negotiate with families when there are differences; and creating program
policies which reflect partnerships with parents.
Culture, Family
and Providers - Children's sense of identity is formed through the ways in
which the important adults in their lives react and interact with them. Rules
for living are passed down to them from their family beliefs, faith, ethnicity,
etc. Children need to feel secure in who they are and where they come from. What
childcare policies and practices should be in place that reflect the support of
cultural beliefs?
Harmonizing
Cultural Diversity for Sensitive Infant Care - Understand the importance of
how children develop their sense of self and how culture impacts it. Everyone
has cultural beliefs, what are yours? Explore these keys to sensitive care:
Responding to
Families in Culturally Sensitive Ways - What is culture? What is cultural
awareness and sensitivity? It is important to understand how culture impacts all
of us so that we can develop certain skills in order to partner effectively with
parents on behalf of their children.
Protective Urges
- Through a four-step process we will explore and work with our feelings that
affect how we work with children and families. We will also work to understand
parent's feelings so that we can be open, honest, and understanding.
Responsive
Family and Community Relationships - The information gained by having strong
relationships with the family and your community can be invaluable
in understanding a child and his/her family. Using that knowledge can lead the
childcare provider in helping parents understand how they can help their child
develop. For example, how to focus on process vs. product learning
opportunities. The skills that a toddler gains in an independent painting
activity are more important than having a piece of artwork that looks like
something to an adult.
Module I
Module II
Module III
