Skilled Dialogue: Strategies for Responding to Cultural Diversity in Early Childhood

How can early childhood practitioners best respond to cultural and linguistic diversity and ensure positive interactions with all children and families? Discover the power of Skilled Dialogue, a unique, effective, and field-tested model for interactions that honour the cultural beliefs and values of everyone involved.

Going far beyond the fundamentals introduced in the first edition of this book, the fully updated second edition incorporates expanded coverage of today's most critical topics and reflects the real-world feedback of seasoned Skilled Dialogue users. With this proven model for respectful, reciprocal, and responsive communication, pre- and in-service educators and interventionists will

• understand culture as a dynamic that shapes the behaviours and beliefs of all people
• actively communicate respect for what others believe, think, and value
• resolve issues creatively by integrating diverse perspectives from all parties
• strengthen inclusive assessment and instruction
• reframe differences between practitioners and families as complementary, not contradictory
• leverage cultural diversity as a strength rather than a problem or risk factor
• avoid stereotypes based on culture and ethnicity
• gain critical insight into the effects of trauma and how it interacts with culture
• establish collaborative relationships rather than seeking control over others

To support professionals as they put Skilled Dialogue into practice, this edition includes more explicit guidance, vivid examples, and practical photocopiable forms to aid with assessment, instruction, and organisation of key family and child information.

With this comprehensive guide to a positive, highly effective model, early childhood professionals will establish skilful interactions that honour all cultures and perspectivesleading to stronger working relationships and better outcomes for whole families.