Strategies that promote and positively address cultural identity and diversity contexts, thereby reinforcing their acts of power, resort to embedding the cultural context into day-to-day practice. This involves acknowledging and respecting children's and families' cultural backgrounds in matters of language, culture, and perspectives (Gay, 2018). Educators use the home language in communication and in the curriculum and carry activities and materials relevant to the culture and identity of children (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2020).
Real partnering with families and elders of the community builds mutual respect and allows services to respond appropriately to cultural needs. Families are invited to share cultural knowledge and participate in decisions with respect to their education, empowering them as partners (AIATSIS, 2023). Also, through professional learning in cultural safety and anti-racism, educators receive the tools to recognize and challenge bias and discrimination in their services (Reconciliation Australia, 2024).
An inclusive learning environment celebrating various cultural festivals, stories, and traditions will, in the end, contribute to building intercultural understanding in children. Activities that promote empathy and respect, together curiosity about differences, contribute to social cohesion from an early age (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2020). Educators must also engage in critical reflections regarding their own cultural assumptions while seeking ways to most effectively increase cultural responsiveness.