For many educators, cultural competence is a new and perhaps unfamiliar area of focus. The EYLF describes cultural competence as: ‘Much more than awareness of cultural differences. It is the ability to understand, communicate with, and effectively interact with people across cultures’.( EYLF 2009, 16) Cultural competence encompasses:
- Being aware of one’s own world view
- Developing positive attitudes towards cultural differences
- Gaining knowledge of different cultural practices and world views
- Developing skills for communication and interaction across cultures.
The EYLF Educators Guide (2010, 25-26) describes cultural competency as a journey that encompasses skills, knowledge and attitudes. It highlights the need for cultural competency to filtrate through three levels- the individual, the service level and the systems level. ‘Educators need to be aware that they pass on their personal values to the children in many ways, including through the curriculum choices such as topics, language, activities, materials, celebrations, displays and in their interactions with others.’ (EYLF in Action AISWA 2011, 71 ) ‘Omissions can be just as destructive as stereotypes and inaccurate information.’(York 2003 cited in EYLF in Action AISWA 2011, 71) Therefore, educators need to firstly consider their own values, beliefs and attitudes related to diversity and acknowledge and address any bias they may hold (EYLF Educators Guide 2010)
The program should recognise and incorporate the diverse cultures, languages, beliefs and values of families, the community and children. Educators who are knowledgeable about the culture and languages that children bring to school are then able to provide resources, experiences and interactions that reflect children’s everyday lives. However, a multicultural approach is relevant regardless of whether the children are from diverse cultural backgrounds or not. Educators need to work consciously to assist children to recognise their own worldview and to build their competence to interact within cultures of larger society (EYLF in Action AISWA 2011, 70)
Being familiar with the rich and long history of Australia, including our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures is essential and enriches us all.’ (EYLF Educators guide 2010, page 25)