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What Is it Like to Be a New Immigrant and a Mom?

In this episode of the Kids Are Philanthropists too! podcast, we continue to explore immigrant and refugee experiences...with a personal story about Alona's mom, Iris.

Our host is Amy Neugebauer with 11-12-year-old co-hosts Jayden, Alona, Leo, Ismahil, Ibrahim, and Sam, all part of The Giving Square community.

Duration: 
PrintOne 50-Minute Session
Objectives: 

Learners will know and be able to

  • speak with respect and empathy about refugee and immigrant experiences.
  • name some ways to help families new to your community.
Materials: 

Link to the Kids Are Philanthropists Too podcast episode 6: "What Is it Like to Be a New Immigrant and a Mom?"

Related Resources:

  • Lubna and Pebble by Wendy Meddour (author) and Daniel Egnéus (Illustrator) literature guide
  • A Different Pond by Bao Phi (author) and Thi Bui (Illustrator) literature guide
  • La Frontera by Deborah Mills (author) and Alfredo Alva (author) and Claudia Navarro (Illustrator)
  • Gibberish by Young Vo
  • Drawn Together by Minh Le (author) and Dan Santat (illustrator) literature guide
  • Muhammad Najem, War Reporter by Muhammad Najem (author) and Nora Neus (author) and Julie Robine (Artist)
Instructions: 
Print

  1. Opening Questions:

    Have you ever moved to a new place? What did it feel like? What was exciting? What was hard?

  2. Play the Kids Are Philanthropists Too podcast episode 6: "What Is it Like to Be a New Immigrant and a Mom?"

  3. Discussion Questions

    1. What moments in the interview with Iris are most memorable to you? 
    2. What was challenging about Iris’ move to the United States? Why did she feel more isolated than her children?
    3. What did Iris do to stay in her comfort zone? Why did she think it was important to go outside her comfort zone? 
    4. What would have made the move easier for Iris? 
    5. What can kids do to help new kids feel like they belong at school? What can adults do to make sure new neighbors feel welcome?

  4. Extensions

    • Name some ways you can help your relatives feel closer to you, even though they might live far away.
    • Create experiences for kids who are new to your community to help them expand their comfort zone. 
    • Think up creative ways to communicate with someone who doesn't speak your language.
    • Learn about a local nonprofit that helps families get settled. Ask them how kids and families can get involved.
    • Listen to our latest podcast.