Embracing culturally diverse child reaRing practices in children’s services

Working with children, Educators & families from diverse cultural backgrounds exposes us to diversity in attitudes and expectations around many child rearing practices. One of the greatest challenges when dealing with cultural diversity, regardless of our cultural background, is the difficulty in acknowledging that our own cultural beliefs frame our way of being, perceiving and doing things. Without realizing it, we assume our observations and practices are the norm or correct way.

​Subconsciously, we may be imposing our own cultural views and values on other people’s children. Step back, reflect, and be open to practicing and accepting new ways, as challenging as we may find them.  How would we feel if our work environment or the care environment our children attended, expected us to separate ourselves and our children from our cultural DNA, and do things another way?

We hear many stories of cultural differences around child rearing practices that conflict between home environment and child care setting expectations. Some examples include feeding, toileting, sleeping arrangements, attitudes to play, school readiness and disability.
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In these instances, communication and information is the key. When we build strong, positive partnerships with families, hold cultural conversations, provide translated literature, or invite professional guest speakers to speak on these topics, attitudes usually change and mindsets shift.
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Work through cultural challenges with open, flexible minds, collaborating or compromising with families and coming up with solutions that work for all parties. Create a sense of welcome, acceptance and belonging, where every child and family is visible and valued. Enable experiences that are meaningful, authentic and extensions of home environment.