Saturday, August 13, 2011
Welcoming Families from Around the World
I am an elementary school teacher. We recently went back to school this past Wednesday. I have a little girl in my class name Seetha. Her family is from India. The father speaks little to no English and the mother speaks some English. Seetha is also deaf. She has a cochlear implant so she can hear in her right ear. To accommodate the family I welcomed them in English and with a traditional Hindu greeting by bowing and saying Namaste. In Indian culture the father is the head of the household. I made sure that when I was talking I tried to address the father most of the time, even though I knew he really didn't understand me. To accommodate Seetha the mother requested I talk to her on her right side. So I made sure she sits to my left so that she can hear me. I also requested a speaker system for my class. This system comes with a small speaker and a microphone I would wear around my neck. The speaker helps to magnify my voice so that Seetha will be able to hear me no matter where I am in the classroom. I hope to learn more about her family and culture as the year goes on. I think this will be an interesting experience.
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Undrea,
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you did your research on India's culture. I find it so very interesting to learn about other cultures. I am sure this family was pleased to know that you had their best interest at heart. You showed this by making what seem to be small modifications to make them feel welcome and a part of their new environment. Thanks for sharing. We need more caring professionals like you in this field.
Acknowledging the fact that the father is the head of the household and addressing the father in conversation is being culturally sensitive. I also think it will be an ongoing process in learning more about this child's culture. I wish you the best in the new school year.
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