Why it sparks inspiration  

A whole child approach ensures that every aspect of development – academic, social-emotional, cognitive, physical, mental health, and identity – is supported to help children thrive. This brief offers insights for educators to foster culturally responsive, inclusive, and equitable learning environments. With practical strategies, such as tiered supports and trauma-informed practices, and principles for creating safe and identity-affirming spaces, this brief equips educators to meet the diverse needs of immigrant-origin children. By integrating these practices, educators can build learning communities where all immigrant-origin children can thrive in their new environment. 

"Supporting the whole child means addressing not only their academic needs but also their social, emotional, and cultural well-being, fostering environments where every student feels seen, heard, and valued for their unique identity and potential." 

How it can inspire your practice 

• The resource provides tools for educators to reflect on their teaching practices and adapt curriculum and interactions to be more culturally responsive and equitable. 

• Educators can integrate strategies from the brief to address the social, emotional, and cultural needs of children. For example: 

  • Educators can use the tiered supports framework to provide individualized cultural and emotional support, ensuring that interventions are responsive to the unique needs of children from diverse backgrounds at varying levels of support. 

  • Educators can use the whole-child approach to implement social-emotional learning strategies to nurture children’s cultural identities, helping them feel seen and valued in their program setting. 

Click here to learn more about the Immigration Initiative at Harvard.