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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 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 …
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 …
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 …
What to Look Out for and How to Get SupportDisclaimer: Information from this blog is not for diagnosing purposes. Have you noticed discourse and awareness of autism has skyrocketed? Parents and caregivers have been sharing their stories, building community, and advocating for their families. Through groups like Autism Speaks, families are able to get more support than ever before. Although …
Silvia Vasquez (right) surveys children playing happily at her original daycare location, Caterpillar Playhouse, opened in 2017 to serve low-income families in Albuquerque, New Mexico’s International District. National Latino Family Report 2024When Silvia Vasquez, a mother of five, started to see her children leave the nest, she found herself at a crossroads. “What am I going to do now?” she …
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