Problem
A. Ask a friend or co-worker to describe what family means to them and to discuss who is in their family. How is their definition similar or different then your own definition and who you describe as being part of your family?
B. Why is it important to learn about a child's family composition?
C. In your reading there is a discussion of three dimensions of family life that are critical to early childhood development. Explain each dimension and include an example.
D. Do a little research and discuss some of the biggest challenges families face today? Discuss at least 3 challenges. Include the weblink you used. Answers will vary: unemployment, housing, food insecurity, divorce...
E. What is one resource you can share with families in your city/town if they are experiencing food insecurity? Provide a brief description and include the web link to the resource.
F. Three reasons according to your reading as to why language is important in culture?
G. Here is your chance to share a little more about your culture, values and/or what makes your family unique. Share something that represents your beliefs, customs, values, or rituals within your culture. All cultures are represented by some common core beliefs and customs, as well as the individual nature of families who identify with certain cultures. Some examples include: a cross, a menorah, a picture or statues of Mother Mary or Buddha, a tartan cloth, a flag, food, clothing or any other symbol from any cultural tradition, ceremony, or daily life. But they can also be stories that have been passed down about your family, things that you enjoy doing as a family, etc. This is another part of what makes YOU you. As you would want to know about the children and families you either serve or will be serving, we want to know a little more about you.
H. Provide a picture or discussion of something that represents your beliefs, customs, values, or rituals within your culture
I. Explain why you chose the item/memory/connection
J. Explain what it means to you and for you
K. Explain how this activity would help to connect to the families that you will serve in your preschool or school age environment.