Module 4: In-Home Interview Strategies

Some families may feel most at ease or be most able to schedule time to meet with you if the interview can be conducted in their home. Home visits can be an excellent opportunity to connect with and learn about the child and their cultural context. If you are considering offering a home visit as an option for family interviews, the following steps and information may be helpful in making for a smooth, respectful, and positive visit.  

 Before offering an in-home interview, explore your district’s policy for home visits. Many districts allow home visits but may have certain policies or procedures for home visits. For example, some districts require staff to go on home visits in pairs. 

• Ensure interpretation is arranged in advance and the interpreter is able to meet at the family home. 
• Research culturally appropriate etiquette for visits.  
  • A crucial part of engaging families from different cultural, ethnic, and/or socioeconomic status backgrounds involves understanding how one's own cultural identity can affect how we view the practices and beliefs of others. By understanding your own cultural biases, you can move beyond seeing yourself as "normal" and realize that everyone's cultural practices should be understood as appropriate in terms of their individual cultural contexts. Being open, friendly, and interested in other people's practices and beliefs is an important component of family engagement activities.  
  • If you are comfortable, accept refreshments offered by the family. This can be a significant gesture of hospitality.  
• Contact the parent prior to arrival: Call/text the parent the night before or earlier in the day to re-confirm arrival time and how many staff members (including interpretation if needed) will be coming.  
• It is advisable to conduct home visits with one other colleague and/or interpreter. 
• After the interview, thank the family for their participation and for hosting you in their home.  

Other Resources: 

• Equity Matters: Engaging Families Through Home Visits Learning for Justice 
• Understanding Families: Resources for Home Visits  Ohio Statewide Family Engagement Center