Chapter 6: The Interface of the American Family and Culture

Young children and their families represent an increasing diversity of language and culture. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC, 2005) emphasizes that children need an environment that respects diversity and encourages their relationship with their families and community, as well as preserves children’s home languages and cultural identities. Supporting young children’s development requires that educators recognize, understand, respect, and accept cultural differences (Saracho & Martínez-Hancock, 2005). Since children and families represent different cultures, it is important to provide a brief overview of culture and how it affects young children.