Supporting Non-English Speaking Families

"It is easier to live through someone else than to become complete yourself." - Betty Friedan

SUPPORTING NON-ENGLISH SPEAKING FAMILIES

The latest issue of "The Healthy Childhood Research Newsletter" (www.healthychildhood.org) published in Australia by Jacqueline Hayden uncovers some myths about working with families with non-English speaking backgrounds (NESB).  An excerpt:

"Myth #2.  Translating information into home languages is the most effective means for communicating with familes from NESB.

"Finding:  Translations are welcome but some caution is advised.  Our research showed the following obstacles with the use of officially translated documents for circulation to NESB families:

" -- Even with nationally accredited translations it is sometimes difficult to develop documents with the correct tone and wording for families.  A trusted individual who knows the language (perhaps a family member from the service) should check all translated documents before they are handed out to families.

" -- Some spoken languages are not the same languages which are used for reading and writing. Services should check with families to find out what languages they read or write.

" -- Some NESB families actually prefer to receive their written information in English.  This should be checked before handing out translated documents.

" -- NESB families often appreciate the effort made when staff or a service client is used as a translator/interpreter.  Access to this service through the early childhood setting, rather than through external agencies, is appreciated and tends to facilitate increased communication on a regular basis."

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