TRINIDAD
It is interesting that this assignment hits the same week that I have a family from Trinidad that will be starting at my Preschool with the first of the New Year. Knowing that I have a few weeks to prepare I will be doing the following things so that both myself and my teachers will be able to provide that best possible care to this new infant and her family. Not knowing too much about Trinidad and its culture it would be beneficial for me to do some research on the country. As with any family that enrolls at my school we sit and talk before their first day of school. The family does speak English but with a thick native accent. With the first meeting I saw that language will be somewhat of a barrier. When I spoke with mom she was very concerned with understanding everything so that she could go home and share everything with her husband. She stopped me a few times to repeat what I had said to make sure that she understood. She was conscious of this and apologized. I will share this information with the teachers so they know that she would like for them to speak clearly when communicating with her. We have asked about food preferences and likes and dislikes of the baby. Mom has shared that she loves to sing and will eat most everything. To make this little on comfortable in her new setting we have asked mom to bring some music that Mercy likes to sing and dance to so that she can hear something familiar in her new setting. We have also requested photos of family to be able to put up in the room so that she can see familiar faces throughout the day also.
I think that a nice way to bring everyone together after the holidays will be to welcome in the New Year with a family potluck. I would like to invite each family to bring a dish that is a favorite in their home. I believe that food is such a great conversation starter. This will be a great way to welcome our new families and allow them the opportunity to introduce themselves and feel a part of the group.
Emily,
ReplyDeleteIt's quite good timing that we had this assignment and you had the family arriving. It was perfect for you. It would be quite interesting and educational to meet a family from another country. Each culture is so interesting and colorful.
Emily,
ReplyDeleteI will remember to ask for pictures of family in the future. This is a great idea to help a child feel comfortable. As I thought about this idea I thought about making a picture chart of the day to help the child: circle time, snack, lunch, rest, and then placing the family picture at pick up time. I think this would help any child learn the routine and know the family will be there to pick them up.
Meredith
Emily-
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of a family potluck. You are correct food is a great conversation starter and it will also help the families to get to know one another. So many time our families never get to really know one another. This is the perfect chance for them to do it. Great posting.