What does it mean to be Culturally Smart?
being aware of one’s own world view
developing positive attitudes towards cultural differences
gaining knowledge of different cultural practices and world views
developing skills for communication and interaction across cultures
This training experience is designed for multidisciplinary professionals who touch the lives of families and children in the Child Welfare System. It is developed to enhance the ability of child welfare practitioners to respond to the unique needs and differences of children and families of various racial and ethnic groups in ways that are culturally congruent to improve outcomes for children and families. Culture S.M.A.R.T. is an engaging experience that simulates aspects of what it is like to “walk in another racial, ethnic or cultural group’s shoes.” In the shoes of another person and come face to face with personal bias and perspectives and assumptions. This training helps us to build skills and knowledge of other cultures and identify opportunities for growth and development in a safe environment. Presenting cultural differences as a reflection of the way we solve similar problems promotes a sense of our common humanity, recognize we are all in this together for challenges in Child Welfare. Understanding this basic notion allows us to view cultural differences as a rich reservoir of solutions to real world concerns. Instead of looking upon cultural differences as things to be tolerated, we can relate to each other as cultural problem solvers with the same desired goals – better outcomes for children and families. This training is being sponsored by the Pelican Center for Children and Families
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