Australia is a wonderful and heartwarming nation filled with people of various cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Every one of whom adds to the rich tapestry of traditions, perspectives, and knowledge that can be found around Australia.
In celebration of Australia’s cultural diversity, inclusiveness, and creating a sense of belonging, March 21st of every year is known as Harmony Day. In commemoration, communities, organisations, and city councils around Australia host special intercultural events. At Bright ELC, we would like to highlight the work our educators do in fostering an inclusive environment for children from all walks of life and backgrounds.
As an established early learning centre in Glen Waverley, we welcome all families, many of whom come from other nations. Nevertheless, we strive to create a safe space for children and their families to learn about each other’s cultures, cuisines, and traditions.
To encourage cross-cultural exchange, our educators are multilingual and familiar with various cultures and traditions. This enables our educators to better support the children and their families to integrate into Australian society more easily and effectively.
As such, our educators come up with fun activities for the children centred around cultural events, such as NAIDOC week, Lunar New Year, and Diwali. These events range from exciting traditional games, fun music and dance, and contemplative storytelling.
Food is also another area where children can share and experience a cultural connection. Our menus incorporate the tastes and preferences of different cultures, broadening the children’s experiences, nutritional diet, and helping them adapt to different tastes.
Cultures aside, we recognise the physical and learning challenges children with additional needs face. We want no child to be left behind in their development, which is why we consult specialised help from speech and occupational therapists to assist any child with developmental needs, while ensuring there is a supportive environment for them to flourish alongside their peers.
By involving children in fun, cultural initiatives that celebrate diversity and instil the value of respect and harmony, they may be able to break barriers and understand one another’s culture and empathise on people who may require additional help and support. Thus, opening their minds to different cultures, languages, and perspectives. These early experiences will be foundational to fostering an inclusive, harmonious, and respectful society.
