Q1: How can we ensure effective teaming with families whose native language is not English?

<Susan Hodges>
  
Early intervention evidenced-based practice uses a coaching or primary service provider approach that is family-centered, and builds the capacity of the caregiver(s) to promote the development of their child, in their natural learning environment during their everyday routines and activities.  Despite a language barrier, it is possible to develop the necessary rapport and trust needed to adhere to these guiding early intervention principles. In accordance with early intervention best practices, providers can begin to develop a rapport by expressing interest and learning about the family’s culture, the language(s) they use, the traditions they hold dear; as well as their daily routines and how they are carried out.  Providers can show they value the family’s language, culture and tradition by asking for, learning and using high-frequency words and children’s songs in the family’s native language, during home and community-based visits.  
When looking at early intervention service delivery for families who do not speak English or whom English is a second language, it’s important to recognize that across cultures, families are more similar than different.  Parents want what is best for their child!  
Using the key principles and evidenced-based practices in early intervention, along with strategies to address communication barriers, will lay a good foundation for ensuring and maintaining effective teaming to multi-cultural families.  While early intervention practitioners should have the use of an interpreter at their disposal or a bilingual therapist on their team, there may be times that it is not feasible and the provider will need to use alternative resources, to bridge the communication gap. Regardless of the circumstances within the visit between the early interventionist and the family, it’s important that the provider considers their own and the family and child’s tone of voice and non-verbal body language and gestures as significant communication exchanges.  Additionally, it’s important to remember that behaviors such as eye contact and/or a smile can be used to demonstrate the universally accepted emotions of caring and compassion. These strategies can go a long way in building the relationship between the provider and the families they serve, which therefore positively impacts the support provided.