Bicultural Support for Occasional Care Services “Our Service has utilised Bicultural Support for many years, since its inception, and can highly recommend the support provided. It is so much more than just an opportunity to interpret a particular language or a tokenistic foray into another culture. All children benefit by the understanding that “difference” is “normal” and that we all share more of the same traits than any variety noticed.” Rosemary, Caterpillar House Occasional Child Care Assoc Inc. What is Bicultural Support? • Bicultural Support is a unique human resource that offers language and cultural support to children, families and educators. • We provide support in-person, over the phone and by email. • The program also promotes diversity, inclusion and cultural competence in early childhood settings. • Part of the Australian Government’s Inclusion and Professional Support Program, it is FREE for Occasional Care Centres across NSW. • Bicultural Support Workers visit education and care services across the state. They can come to your Occasional Care service. How can Bicultural Support help YOU? • Are you interested in introducing diverse cultures and languages into your Occasional Care Centres? • Would you like help running multicultural and diversity activities? NSW Professional Support Co-ordinator Bicultural Support in NSW is delivered by Ethnic Community Services Co-operative on behalf of Children’s Services Central, the NSW Professional Support Co-ordinator. The Inclusion and Professional Support Program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. “The particular child/children with the language/culture of the Bicultural Support Worker blossoms with confidence in the glow of the programs’ current focus on their inclusion. Our families are highly appreciative that we have made the effort to learn about their individual needs and wants and concerns; and that their child has been exposed to an inclusive environment. Our staff have benefited by the extra “hands on deck” and also a sounding board for sensitive programing ideas for particular children and groups. This learning lasts long after the support worker has left” Rosemary, Caterpillar House Occasional Child Care Assoc Inc. • Would you like help developing multicultural programming ideas? • Would you and your children like to learn more about Aboriginal culture? • Would you like assistance communicating with children and families who speak a different language? • Would having someone explain routines in their home language make culturally and linguistically diverse children feel more comfortable and included? • Do you need support to build your confidence to deliver diverse and inclusive programming? • Are you aware of the diverse resources and professional development opportunities that are available to support inclusive practices in Occasional Care centres? How to access Bicultural Support • Complete the “Request for Bicultural Support Form” (you can find it on our website). • Work with your Educational Leader and Inclusion Support Facilitator (ISF) to develop an Inclusion Improvement Plan for your service. • Email both forms to: [email protected] • Make sure that you speak to your ISF about your application! Bicultural Support Activities • Music and Movement • Library/Listening • Dramatic Play • Outdoor Learning • Sand and Water Play • Cooking/Kitchen • Visual Arts CONTACT US Phone: Email: Web: 02 9569 1288 [email protected] ECSC.org.au facebook.com/biculturalsupport
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