Empowered by Knowledge, Strengthened by Love At AP-OD, we believe that parents are their child’s first and most powerful teacher. Every time we meet a parent like Angélica Rodríguez Granados, we’re reminded of the strength, resilience, and love that lives within our community. Angélica is a proud mother of three and a recent graduate of the AP-OD program. She joined …
Facilitator Spotlight: Florencio Guerra-Lindsay Unified School District
Building Bridges, One Family at a Time In the heart of Tulare County—an area known for its agricultural roots and resilient spirit—Lindsay Unified School District (LUSD) stands as a powerful example of what’s possible when schools invest in family partnerships. With nearly 4,000 students, 95% of whom are Hispanic and over 30% English Learners, Lindsay Unified understands firsthand the challenges …
Free Tax Filing for Families
Tax Day is looming, and let’s be honest, it can feel overwhelming. Are you worried about making mistakes? Wondering if you’re missing out on potential refunds? You’re not alone! Millions of people struggle with tax preparation each year. But what if I told you there’s a way to simplify the process and potentially put more money back in your pocket? …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …