A cultural identity constitutes a central axis around which a child’s sense of belonging, well-being, and capacity for resilience spins. Early learning settings that acknowledge and celebrate the cultures and languages of children tend to foster in them favorable views of themselves and growing confidence, active participation, and engagement (Harrison & Sellwood, 2016). Conversely, the absence of cultural recognition or experiences of discrimination will engender feelings of exclusion, disconnection, and lowered participation in education (Dunn et al., 2020).
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families' children, culturally responsive practice helps reconnect them with kin, community, and Country, which have a heavy bearing on identity and wellbeing (Dudgeon et al., 2014). There are settlement challenges faced by migrant and refugee families such as coming to terms with an unfamiliar system, finding secure housing, or even trauma resulting from their displacement or journey during migration (Refugee Council of Australia, 2021). Language barriers may stop families from engaging properly with educators and other services, allowing a lapse in communication about the child's learning needs (Harrison & Sellwood, 2016).
Diversity in cultural perspectives benefits all children by promoting empathy, respect, and cross-cultural understanding. Valuing diversity and developing cultural competence, partnering with families for learning outcomes are the fundamental strands that should run through all aspects of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF V2.0) (Australian Government Department of Education, 2022).