What are the best practices for working with families who have infants from the readings and video in this module? Identify your source (readings or video) as you develop the list.
Your reading may have described families of older children; how can you apply the information to families who have infants?
The best practices for working with families who have infants from the reading in this module would be Im, Parlakian, & Sanchez (2007) discussing that infant teachers should talk to families about their cultural practices, traditions and beliefs which can help provide the message that they are valued along with staying open and accepting the different ways of caring , teaching and thoughtfully exploring the many ways to help children and families feel welcome. Possibly even sharing information about your own culture , beliefs and practices which will encourage families to discuss their own culture with you where you can then ask question and listen closely without judgment.
Nakia — Thanks for your comment in this activity. I appreciate that you connected Im, Parlakian & Sanchez (2007) to your comment. I wonder, what are other ways infant teacher make families feel welcome?
Other ways infant teachers can make families feel welcome is by visiting the families communities and inviting families to share what they believe is important for the children to learn and achieve.
The best practices for working with families who have infants from the readings and video in this module is start by looking behind the the mothers actions, meaning looking into the approach the mother has to do with a particular set of cultural beliefs and traditions (Gonzalez-Mena & Bhavnagri, 2000). Also infant teachers should be open to and accepting of different ways of caring and teaching (Im, Parlakian & Sanchez , 2007)
Yasmin — Thanks for your comment in this activity. You referenced material from the module in your comment. I wonder, how can infant teachers be open & accepting to different ways of caring for & teaching infants?
The best practices for working with families who have infants from the readings and video in this module would be Cultural sensitivity. Caregiving practices can be different and vary greatly amongst different cultures (Gonzalez-Mena & Bhavnagri (2000) Dialogue and communication are also vital as well in this instance. A caregiver should ask the families questions to gain a better understand and comprehension of how the child is being raised in regards to customs and beliefs. Reflective thinking strategies can also help the caregiver and family better help the child and one another. The caregiver can also share their expertise with the families to better understand one another and work together for the best care and results for the child (Gonzalez-Mena & Bhavnagri (2000)
Ronelle — –Thanks for sharing the best practices for working with families who have infants you identified from ECE 209-Seminar Module 6! I wonder, how might infant teachers use reflective strategies in relation to culture?
The best practices for working with families who have infants would definitely be to take the time to talk to the families. When a conversation is had, you guys are getting on the same page in terms of how to care for that child. If there are any differences, having dialogue is extremely helpful that way a child is taken care to fit their needs.
Essence –Thanks for sharing the best practices for working with families who have infants you identified from ECE 209-Seminar Module 6! I wonder, what would the conversation between the family & teacher look like? What would the teacher say?