Welcoming Families From Around the World

The country that I chose to explore as the country of origin that "my" family moved from is Thailand. I was able to learn a lot of facts about Thailand that I had no clue existed.  I learned five ways that I can be culturally responsive to this family.

1. Taking off my shoes when I go to their home for a home visit (The Thailand Life, 2016). 
2. Ensure that I don't point when talking to them or giving them a tour of the school (The Thailand Life, 2016). 
3. Calling all of the adults by their first name with the title Khun because they are not used to their last name being used (Kwintessential, 2016).
4. When greeting the Thai family I will use the "wai"gesture rather than shaking hands (Kwintessential, 2016). 
5. I will make sure to never pat the child on their head because they believe that it can be dangerous to their well-being (Everyday Culture, 2016). 

I feel that these preparations would help me know how to make a family from Thailand feel more comfortable and respected coming to America. I know that if I moved to a new country I would feel pleased and grateful in knowing that someone took the time to find out about my culture and do things that would make me feel comfortable in my new environment.  

References

Countries and Their Cultures (2016). Thailand. [Data file]. Retrieved from http://www.everyculture.com/Sa-Th/Thailand.html

Kwintessential. (2016). Thailand-Thai language, culture, customs, and etiquette. [Data file]. Retrieved from 

http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/thailand-country-profile.html

The Thailand Life. (2016). 10 Things you didn't know about Thai culture [Data file]. Retrieved from http://www.thethailandlife.com/10-facts-thai-culture-and-customs