Looking through the lens: a photovoice study examining access to services for newcomer children

Year Published:

Abstract

Purpose: Canadian new immigrant families (also known as newcomers) encounter challenges navigating systems when trying to access programmes critical for their children’s healthy development. The purpose of this study is to understand how newcomer families find and use early childhood programmes and services from the perspective of families and early childhood educators (ECEs) working within a settlement organization.
Methods: Using photovoice methodology, newcomer family members (n = 8) with young children and ECEs (n = 6) participated in a series of virtual workshops to share photos and reflect on their experiences.
Results: Participants discussed the systemic barriers that obstructed newcomer families’ access to services for young newcomer children. Financial challenges due to unemploy­ ment/underemployment, language and cultural differences were emphasized. Despite these barriers and challenges, participants shared how culturally responsive programmes enhanced their connections to programmes and services. Both groups of participants discussed the critical role of social networks in supporting newcomers to use programmes by helping families become aware of available services and assistance with various processes such as registration.
Conclusions: This research illustrates the lived experiences of newcomer families and iden­ tifies opportunities to address inequities, improve early childhood programmes, and enhance families’ access to programmes and services.

Citation

Relevant Evidence Summaries

The evidence was reviewed and included in the following summaries: 

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About this study

AGE: Multiple Age Groups

DIRECTION OF EVIDENCE: No evidence about impact

FULL TEXT AVAILABILITY: Free

HOST COUNTRY: Canada

HOST COUNTRY INCOME: High

INTERVENTION DURATION: NA

INTERVENTION: Having social networks and connections (personal and via community organizations) Perceived safety of systems and having trauma-informed approaches in programs

POPULATION: Immigrants

REGION OF ORIGIN OF PARTICIPANT(S): Multiple Regions

STRENGTH OF EVIDENCE: Suggestive

TYPE OF STUDY: Suggestive evidence

YEAR PUBLISHED: 2023

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