Description

Overview:

In 1991, the Head Start Bureau published the Multicultural Principles for Head Start Programs information memorandum and resource handbook (hereafter referred to as the Multicultural Principles) following two years of work by the Head Start Multicultural Task Force. Its purpose was to “stand as a challenge” to programs to “focus efforts on individualizing services so that every child and family feels respected and valued and is able to grow in accepting and appreciating difference” (Administration for Children, Youth, and Families 1991, 3). The memorandum presented this challenge to programs:

Effective Head Start programming requires understanding, respect, and responsiveness to the cultures of all people, but particularly to those of enrolled children and families. (Administration for Children, Youth, and Families 1991, 5)

This statement implies that Head Start programs are effective when their systems and services reflect well­developed understandings of the cultures of enrolled families. Furthermore, individual staff members must be able to demonstrate their respect for, and respond to, all of the different cultures within their service area. The Multicultural Principles also recognized that program staff and administrators are rooted in their own cultures. Culture is, therefore, a fundamental feature of Head Start program systems and services.

Subject:

Early Childhood Development

Level:

Community College / Lower Division

Material Type:

Reading

Author:

Early Childhood Learning and Knowledge Center

Provider:

United States Department of Health and Human Services

Provider Set:

Early Childhood Learning and Knowledge Center

Date Added:

12/13/2022