Welcoming Families from Around the World

 Welcoming Families From Around the World
Family’s country of origin: Burkina-Faso




There are over 60 ethnic groups in Burkina-Faso, while French is the official language there are a variety of languages and dialects that are spoken. The Burkinabe are accustomed to moving around and intermixing. They have a strong sense of community wherever they live and feel it is a duty to help one another.  The country has a high tolerance for different religions half of the Burkinabes are Muslim  with 15%  Christians (mainly Catholics). Life in Burkina-Faso is harmonious, unlike several of their neighbors who have experienced war and unrest.

Knowing the family’s ethnic relationship will enable me to narrow down the specifics of their language, cultural customs, and beliefs regarding children, their education and interactions with adults. To achieve this I must familiarize myself with pertinent facts related to the family’s’ actual ethnic group.
                  ·         Learning key words and phrases in the family’s home language to help family feel                                comfortable and accepted.
·         Having materials in the family’s home language available to help ease the transition
·         Having knowledge of the culture, customs, and traditions that influence the family’s view on education guidance, along with children’s interactions with adults to avoid imposing my views  on the family
·         Communication styles are unique to each culture, learning about the particular style the family uses is necessary to learn how to respond with cultural consistency to any communication exchange.
·         Work on conflict resolution procedures to prepare for any cultural conflicts between the program and the family’s cultural beliefs.
Having information relating to the family culture are the tools I will need to begin a relationship with the family. Family relationships are an important aspect in the child’s education process. It is a contributor to the child’s success. My goal is to welcome the family and understand their expectations for their child with respect and acceptance of their individual beliefs. 

 References
http://www.infoplease.com/country/burkina-faso.html

http://www.our-africa.org/burkina-faso/people-culture

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