Answer to Question 1
ANSWER: Develop a childs positive selfconcept: A childs understanding and
appreciation of himself must come first, before learning to appreciate and
relate to others. Curriculum activities to emphasize this goal should relate to a
childs developing sense of autonomy and his place in the world.
Further an understanding of a childs role in the family: As the child learns about himself, he is also learning about his family. Knowing about the family history, where family members lived before, and the familys values, attitudes, customs, celebrations, and occupations all contributes to a childs sense of belonging. Activities should offer opportunities for a child to talk about and identify things about himself and his family.
Develop an awareness of a childs own cultural heritage as well as the traditions of others: Continuing in the classroom what the child is experiencing in the home environment requires a teacher to communicate openly and often with the childs family. It also means that a teacher should start where the child is with his language, customs, traditions, and values and build on his growth toward self-understanding and acceptance.
Provide an inclusive, multicultural classroom environment: This should reflect the lives and interests of the children, families, and teacher who live in the immediate environment, as well as foster a respect for people everywhere. Social study activities should blend this diversity into the theme, lesson plans, and daily activities throughout the year.
Help the child understand the need for rules and laws: Starting with the rules of the family, the child begins to understand the limits placed on him within his environment at a very young age. Conflicts often occur as the childs sense of independence clashes with the rules of the home and classroom. To minimize these encounters, the child should participate in setting the rules.
Answer to Question 2
ANSWER:
Schedule parent conferences after working hours; provide multilingual communications and translators as needed; create a space for parents at the school; use bulletin boards effectively to communicate a variety of issues; allow parents to influence school policies and procedures; encourage parents to visit, call, volunteer, and attend school events; have the teaching staff be reflective of the cultural backgrounds of the parents.