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Recognising Diverse Family Cultural and Religious Beliefs – And What Celebrations to Include in ECE

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Multi-cultural awareness and providing a curriculum that supports the culture of families at early childhood centres and services.

Supporting family culture, values and beliefs is central to caring for and educating young children. Yet early childhood services often recognise some cultural and religious practices while overlooking others.

This article explores why that happens, the key questions educators should ask, and the practical ways services resolve differences in belief and celebration. We’ll consider what celebrations mean to families, tamariki and communities, and outline how services can respond respectfully and thoughtfully.

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