6164 Week 7 A Bunny from Turkey

First Up some notes.

These are the websites I used to gather information on Turkey. And I have decided to call my imaginary classroom The Bunnies.

http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/kids/places/find/turkey/

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/tu.html

http://www.turkishculture.org/

Now to my thoughts…

I have just received word that a family from Turkey will be joining my class. I am excited about learning about this new culture and welcoming a new child into our Bunny world.  I want to do my best to welcome this family.

I have done a little bit of research and I’ve learned that Turkey has been through a lot over the years.  They have a parliamentary government. They have been “settled” by numerous groups that has given the Turkish people many ethnicities. They gave women modern rights in the 1920’s. They are also one of the first Muslim countries to have a separation of faith and government. I was trying to find information about how Turkey views children and children roles.  I had no such luck. So I will just have to wing it. I know that welcoming a new family will take time. We will not be BFF’s overnight. I’ll just take my time and do my best.

I would introduce myself and give a tour of the room. I will ask for family photos and explain why. One of my websites said that asking questions is a part of Turkish culture so that will be great for me. I will ask many questions in regards to what they want for their child and how they see our relationship as teacher and parents. I will ask them about toilet training habits, sleep habits, and eating habits. Most of Turkey is Sunni Muslim – I will ensure there is always an option for the child when we serve pork dishes. I will ask about any other diet specifications.  I will ask if they any story books or other comfort items from home. I will also need to find out how they view themselves as parents.  I just realized this family may not speak English in which case I will ask MCV for an interpreter.  I will explain to them about our open door policy and about visitation. They are welcome to come by whenever they have time. We encourage our parents to take an active role in our children’s lives.  

I will also put out a bulletin about our new family to give my families a heads up and to gently encourage them to be welcoming as well. I cannot control adult behavior.  But Bunny parents are usually good about supporting one another. I know we have other international families and I know there are other Muslim families, maybe I can ask them what made them feel welcome for more ideas.

Perhaps we will set up a Family Meal. That’s what we call it when we invite the families and have a big meal together. Turkish culture celebrates with hospitality and food maybe a family meal will be nice. It will allow all the Bunnies and their families to get to know one another.  

I really want all my children to form happy healthy identities. Being a child in a new country is harder than I will ever know. I can only hope that I do a good job and make sure this child is loved and respected as all my other little bunnies.