Understanding Latino Children and Families
Latino is the fastest growing population in Oklahoma
Hispanic or Latino ? Latino or Mexican ?
Culture is everything that makes a person. It affects how you see YOURSELF and OTHERS
Culture Beliefs Attitudes Decisions Food Language Learn style Family Dynamic Child Bearing
Some reasons for Immigration are… -Poverty -War -Family pressure -Work
Cultural Shock… -Family Dynamic -Language -Sense of Community -Food -Sense of Belonging
What kinds of barriers or challenges do you have with Latino Immigrant Children and Families?
Possible characteristics of Immigrant Latino children and families…. -Stress -Depression -Timidity -Isolation -Irritability -Anxiety -Flexibility -Adaptability
What can you do to help children and families feel welcome and accepted?
Show respect: - Incorporate the child’s culture - Allow the use of Spanish - Contribute to their self-esteem learning process tolerance of others differences Show love and acceptance: - Be affectionate - Allow them to attach to at least one special person - Give compliments
Do not assume. - Always evaluate children’s behavior through their own culture - Evaluate your own biases Ask questions: - Ask about cultural preferences - Ask parents how they do certain things at home - Clarify values
Learn basic Spanish: - The family and child will feel you are trying to connect with them - Show interest in learning Have some Latino staff: - Creates trust - Opens communication Translate materials/resources: - Culturally sensitive manner - Families will get more involved
Add cultural elements to your setting: - Latino food in their menu - Magazines from different cultures - Hats of different cultures - Multi-ethnic dolls/puppets - Latino pretend food - Bilingual puzzles - Books (bilingual, no stereotypes) - Posters/visual materials with Latino children - Spanish music/songs and rhymes - Musical instruments (maracas, drums, guitars)
The early childhood classroom constantly provides messages about WHAT the program values, and WHO is valued, from what hangs on the walls. “Everyday is MULTICULTURAL education day”
Remember… Every child, regardless of sex or race, needs to be loved, accepted and respected.
Helping a child learn to socialize is essential. Helping a child learn to write is essential. Helping a child learn to read is essential. But helping a child learn about one’s own culture is the first step in helping a child learn who he or she can become …
Keila Garcia, Hispanic Services Coordinator (405) / Oklahoma Child Care Resource and Referral Association