By Cassandra Banitsiotis, Fanshawe College, Honors Bachelor of Early Childhood Leadership. During her Parents2Partners internship, Cassandra advocated for inclusive resources so children, families, and educators feel appreciated and heard.
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Have you ever struggled to connect with parents who seemed less involved in the classroom? Take a moment to think about why. Many immigrant and English learner families still struggle to feel included in schools. Knowing the backgrounds of every family helps us make our teaching as inclusive as possible.
Create trusted relationships
Get to know each student and family. Stay open to learning about the cultures and backgrounds in your classroom, and build a climate that welcomes all of them. Responsive, respectful relationships help you understand each family’s practices and values.
Recognize the barriers
When a family is not responding, we sometimes assume they are not interested instead of asking why. Newsletters, emails, and online platforms may not be understood by families still learning English. Ways to reduce barriers:
- Translate newsletters, emails, and feedback into families’ first languages.
- Weave children’s cultural backgrounds into curriculum plans.
- Choose play materials and books that reflect diversity.
- Invite families to share music, books, or objects that represent their traditions and values.
Leave assumptions and bias behind
Assumptions and bias are natural, but they get in the way. Notice where your judgments come from and learn more about the topic. Staying open takes work, and it helps families and children feel valued while making you a more empathetic and inspiring educator.