Bridging Cultural Gaps in Early Childhood Education and Care: Strengthening Parent-Practitioner Partnerships to Support Minority Children's Success.
Joelle Feudjo Maneze: Independent Consultant
Abstract
This reflection paper explores the critical role of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) settings in supporting the success of minority children through culturally responsive practices and strong parent-practitioner partnerships. Minority children often face educational disadvantages, but ECEC environments can bridge achievement gaps by fostering cultural continuity and integrating children's cultural capital into daily learning experiences. Culturally competent practices help establish a sense of belonging and identity, both essential for academic success. Strong collaboration between parents and practitioners ensures that children's cultural heritage is respected, promoting holistic development and long-term well-being. The paper emphasizes the need for inclusive, enabling environments that support minority children's educational and developmental success.
Key words: Culturally responsive practices, Parent-practitioner partnerships, Cultural capital, Sense of belonging, Minority children
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