Am I Communicating with You?

Do you want to communicate more effectively? There are three ways to can be a successful communicator.  

We must first begin by understanding and appreciating cultural differences. Often times we are set in our ways and want children and families to conform to the ways we think are best, rather than adapting our practices to meet the needs of others. Gonzalez-Mena (2010) describes it well as she relates it to cutting the apron strings. “For many people trained in early care and education, it is easy to see why cultures cut the apron strings and how they raise their children in preparation for this cutting. For those people, it may be hard seeing the other view and they may be extremely resistant to it” (Gonzalez-Mena, 2010, p.37).  Appreciating differences is one key to effective communication.

The second key to communicating more affectively is adapting they way we engage with others based on their cultural needs, how they want to be treated. Once we understand and appreciate the cultural differences between us, we adapt our practices to responsive to the needs of others.

Lastly, understanding the concepts of verbal and nonverbal can aid in effective communication. Much of what we have learned relates to the understanding of cultures and customs of others.  Each class within this degree program has emphasized the importance of understanding the intricacies of cultures. This is impossible to accomplish if we shelter ourselves within the American culture which surrounding us.  Early childhood professional are ethically responsible to seek out opportunities to learning about the world, its cultures, and customs.

To tie these three strategies together to accomplish these goals, we need to listen, learn, and experience the world beyong ourselves.

Gonzalez-Mena, J. (2010). 50 strategies for communicating and working with diverse families. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.