6/10/01
Question 111
Dear Preschool
Teacher,
I have had a Chinese family join my preschool group
recently, and would like to make them feel welcome and accepted by
introducing their culture and traditions to the other children in the
class, do you have any ideas on how I could achieve this?
Welcoming New Culture
Dear
Welcoming New Culture,
I think
the best way to introduce their culture is to ask them how things are
done where they used to live. Perhaps they can fix a traditional
snack. Or they can give you a recipe for one. Invite them
to share their language, writings, and memorabilia with the children.
Be sure that it is not patronizing in any way. It may
depend on how closely they follow any cultural traditions. Ask
them for advice. I'm sure they would be happy to help.
Jackie
"Ask The Preschool Teacher Staff"
Dear
Welcoming New Culture,
What a nice idea! I would ask the family if there is anything They
might like to share about their culture -- usually children LOVE to
have their families come in to school, so this could also help welcome
the child.
Kris
"Ask The Preschool Teacher Staff"
Dear
Welcoming New Culture,
One of the ways I have introduced new cultures into my classroom is to
have the child or the parent present something of their heritage to
the class. We have learned many great neat things this way. Often the
parents bring in several objects for the children and books about
their traditions.
Tara
"Ask The Preschool Teacher Staff"
Dear
Welcoming New Culture,
I have a family that adopted two girls from China and they brought in a video
of their visit to China as well as some items that belonged to the girls.
They also wore their traditional clothing. I have served Chinese food and
made Chinese lanterns and read some books that talk about the Chinese culture.
Lisa
"Ask The Preschool Teacher Staff"
