Approximately one quarter of all children under the age of 18 belong to immigrant families in the U.S. These numbers are expected to continue to grow. 

 

Let’s face it…many immigrant parents and families deal with complicated experiences. 
They might deal with challenges with acculturation, generational differences, separation or distance from grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. 

 

Immigrant and first-generation children may struggle with figuring out their cultural identity.
Immigrant parents often must help their children learn family cultural heritage, their family’s language, values, religious beliefs, etc. AND these parents also have to manage all the usual big and small child/teen/youth challenges like making friends at school, figuring out a college major, doing chores at home, finishing homework, being cordial with other family members, using screen time safely, and so much more! 

 

We know that immigrant families, including young children and teens need more parenting resources that are adapted to their diverse needs. It’s complicated when your culture is not reflected in parenting advice books, and your values seem a bit different from your neighbors, or you are afraid your child’s school counselor does not understand your parenting priorities. You may, at times, feel judged by the pediatrician or the soccer coach. 

 

Who can you trust and turn to for understanding and a bit of solid parenting help? 

 

In our collective experiences as immigrants, parents, community members, family therapists and researchers, we also hear the other side: 

 

Children of immigrants often reveal that they feel a great emotional distance from their immigrant parents. Teachers and health care providers express concern because they are not able to engage with all parents or connect with their parenting styles. 

 

We help all sides work together as partners and collaborators. 

 

We facilitate understanding and communication. 

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