Collaborating with Diverse Families and Learners Chapter Sixteen Collaborating with Diverse Families and Learners © 2016 Taylor & Francis
In This Chapter You Should: Identify diversity in its various forms and the impact on the family and learner Cite barriers to working with diverse families and learners Identify strategies for collaborating with diverse families and learners Understand how professionals need to change Provide ways to promote diversity through collaboration among various stakeholders © 2016 Taylor & Francis
Identifying Diversity and the Impacts on the Family and Learner Families are more dynamic and diverse than ever before Three important facets to remember when working with a diverse population 1. No culture is inherently better than another 2. Behaviors are always on a spectrum They should not be “assigned” to a person due to their culture Each individual may or may not fit cultural norms © 2016 Taylor & Francis
Barriers to Working with Diverse Families Work challenges Emotional challenges Language challenges Parent access challenges Cultural dissonance challenges Self-imposed challenges © 2016 Taylor & Francis
Strategies for Collaborating with Diverse Families Attentiveness for structural changes Different communication styles “No surprises” Regular and positive communication Focus on strengths rather than weaknesses © 2016 Taylor & Francis
Strategies for Collaborating with Diverse Families There a four steps to follow when planning to meet with diverse families: Take initiative to meet and get to know the families Continue to build that foundation Consistently make sure to maintain and support family relationships Take time to assess, reflect, and grow © 2016 Taylor & Francis
Professional Change Assumptions can be made before they should be Professionals must identify and address biases Maintain open communication with families Build parent associations or advisory councils Be varied and creative with parent involvement Share responsibilities for success and failures © 2016 Taylor & Francis