El grupo de Abriendo Puertas parados afuera para la foto.

New Look, Same AP-OD

Our refreshed brand and what it means for partners and families Over the past several months, AP-OD has been working on a refresh to our brand—one that reflects the diversity, strength, and vibrancy of the families and communities we serve. We’ve listened to you, our partners, and know how important it is for AP-OD’s brand to be as inclusive and welcoming …

Junta de Padres

Know Your Rights

Navigating life for families with young children can be both exciting and challenging. Children who live in households with people of mixed immigration status may face additional fears and challenges in everyday life that can cause stress for children. At AP-OD, also known as Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors, we believe in the power of knowledge and community for families to overcome …

5 people standing in front of UPLAN backdrop

A Year of Growth and Collaboration: Celebrating the Achievements of the AP-OD National Parent & Caregiver Co-creation Advisory Group

As we close out 2024, we want to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of the Abriendo Puertas-Opening Doors (AP-OD) National Parent/Caregiver Co-creation Advisory Group. Now in its second year, we had the opportunity to collaborate with parents and caregivers from California, New Mexico, and Massachusetts who have all participated in local AP-OD programs.This dynamic group continues to demonstrate the power of …

Hands in the shape of a heart and banner stating breaking through the barriers of self-care.

Breaking through the barriers to self-care: Effective Strategies for Parents & Caregivers

Written by Silvia Esqueda, M.S., LMFT As parents and caregivers, we’re often juggling countless responsibilities—work, family, and everything in between. But what about taking care of ourselves? Self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s necessary for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines self-care as a multifaceted practice that impacts every part of our lives—from personal …

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time for us to celebrate the Hispanic community’s vibrant culture, history, and contributions across the U.S. The celebration of our Hispanic heritage runs deeper than just one month out of the year or a single narrative of Hispanic culture. Hispanic Heritage Month is about recognizing the trailblazers who have shaped history and continue to influence …

a grandma and her grandkid reading books with text that says "supporting gradparents, essential tips for caring for your grandchildren"

Supporting Grandparents: Essential Tips for Caring for Your Grandchildren

Written by Silvia Esqueda, M.S., LMFTIn the absence of accessible and affordable options for working families, grandparents have increasingly become the cornerstone of early child care in the U.S. One out of four children under the age of five is cared for by a grandparent while a parent works or goes to school. The number of multi-generational families (three or …

Little girl with a backpack and a headline that says "easing the transition, how to help your child overcome school and daycare anxiety"

Easing the Transition

How to Help Your Child Overcome School & Daycare AnxietyBy Silvia Esqueda, M.S., LMFTStarting school or childcare is a big milestone, and it’s completely normal for parents and children to both feel some anxiety about this new transition. In fact, 86% of school-aged children reported worrying at least some of the time, with 67% of kids turning to their parents …

Lee Ho with his first class

Facilitator Spotlight: Lee Ho, Los Angeles “Trainer of Trainers”

Lee Ho leads one of the most diverse communities in the U.S. As an Organization and Workforce Development Consultant with the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) and an AP-OD trainer, Lee brings over a decade of experience and passion to his work that supports the wellbeing of families and children. Los Angeles County, home to nearly 10 million …

Latina mother looking at her 3 year old son smiling and laughing

Raising Emotionally Resilient Children: Mental Health Resources for Parents

Raising emotionally resilient kids in today’s world has many challenges, but by nurturing their mental health, parents can equip little ones with crucial coping skills for a lifetime of emotional wellness. We’ve gathered an in depth lineup of resources to support parents and caregivers on this journey. Having open conversations about mental health in our families can help break down …

a green outline of a head with a purple puzzle piece above words that say "Mental Health Awareness Month" and a green ribbon on the bottom

ADHD

What is it, and how do you get support?Disclaimer: This blog is not for diagnosing purposes.In families all over the country, people are diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors, acting without thinking about the result, or being overly active. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), ADHD is one …