Welcoming Families Around the World

I would avoid a “tourist type” curriculum (Derman-Sparks, 2010).  “Tourist curriculum, a superficial educational approach, does not make diversity a routine part of the ongoing, daily learning environment and experiences” (Derman-Sparks, 2010).  I would also start by following these basic steps in my childcare curriculum and environment:

·         “Connect cultural activities to concrete, daily life experiences” (Derman-Sparks, 2010). 

·         “Be intentional about including the cultural life of all families in your activities” (Derman-Sparks, 2010). 

·         “Explore the similarities that exist among people across all their differences” (Derman-Sparks, 2010). 

·         “Avoid the editorial “we” when talking with children about cultural practices” (Derman-Sparks, 2010). 

·         “Avoid singling out one child or only a few children in your program whose cultural backgrounds differ from the rest” (Derman-Sparks, 2010). 

·         “Always begin by exploring the cultural similarities and differences among the children, families, and staff in your program” (Derman-Sparks, 2010).  “Then expand to cultural groups beyond your classroom” (Derman-Sparks, 2010). 

 

For this assignment I have chosen Burma. We have a family friend who was raised in Burma and moved to the United States as an adult (she has inspired me to pick this place). She shares with us stories and experiences from her home that are informative and inspiring and they tend to not be forgotten by the listener.   

 

Burma is located in Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Bangladesh and Thailand

 

             

Locating simple information springs many ideas of where to start welcoming a new family and centering lesson planning around activities.

 

Reaching out to experts in that area's culture can also provide some information.

"National Geographic Expert Paula Swart Paula Swart is an expert on Asian culture and history, with a special interest in Buddhism, and has been a museum curator for more than 20 years" ( http://www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com). "Her travels have taken her to Southeast Asia numerous times" ( http://www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com). "She has recently organized an exhibition on Buddhist art, called Visions of Enlightenment, that included Burmese art" ( http://www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com). "Paula holds degrees in archaeology, Asian art history, and Chinese history" ( http://www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com). "She speaks five languages, including Mandarin, and has published several books and numerous articles on the art and architecture of Asian cultures" ( http://www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com).

 

References

Derman-Sparks, L., & Edwards, J. O. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children  (NAEYC).