Culture is co-constructed by caregiver and child according to their system of shared meanings. Issues of language, discipline, moral and spiritual development must be understood within the context of a group's shared system and perspective of the world. Some of the more challenging issues for professionals include:

• Language and communication styles - differences in non-verbal communication styles, understanding the what and how of early childhood or intervention services and previous experiences with "authority figures"
• Difficulties in sharing meaning at a deeper level, i.e., around relationships, parenting and child development
• Differences in perceptions of "appropriate" dress and behaviour
• Lack of awareness of family dynamics and roles
• History of oppression of a cultural group and the consequences that will have on relationships with professionals
• Impact of immigration
• Conflict in values between the professional and the family