The Role of Culture in Early Childhood Development

The Role of Culture in Early Childhood Development The incorporation of culture and its influences on early childhood development have been extensive, although, not consistent. Research studies’ use of cross-cultural perspectives to analyze development and behavior has swung like a pendulum. Throughout time, it has extensively incorporated the meaning of culture in shaping growth to entirely forsaking its role in favor of studying individual agency.[4] The swing in perspective is often linked to the antiquated debate between the influence of nature and nurture on human growth. Even when using a cultural lens, “the literature on typical development is based overwhelmingly on studies of middle-class European-American ancestry. In contrast, much of the research on children of color has focused on the impacts of poverty, drawing its samples from homogeneous communities in high-risk urban environments.” [5] This demonstrates a weakness in the study of early childhood development. The CASA/LA Early Childhood Training Program breaks down the core concepts of healthy childhood development – early neurological development, the importance of relationships for healthy development, the impact of risk factors on infant/toddler wellbeing. The exploration of culture’s influence in young children’s lives and the involvement of CASAs own cultural background and experience are detailed in a less comprehensive way. However, these issues should be continuously evaluated in training supervision and personal reflection. CASA/LA volunteers are expected to use their knowledge of culture and own cultural background as a gateway to understanding the core concepts of healthy development and well-being of all children.

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