Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring Culture in Foster Care & Adoption

More than 40% of the children in foster care in Texas are Hispanic, yet many are living with families who are not of Hispanic descent. Transracial foster and adoptive placements create opportunities to love and respect people with different backgrounds, but parents must intentionally help children learn about their culture. From September 15th to October 15th we honor National Hispanic Heritage Month. Here are some ways foster and adoptive families can help Hispanic children stay connected with their heritage.

Language

Some children come into foster care speaking little or no English. Living in a place without anyone who can understand you is scary. Without opportunities to communicate with other fluent speakers, a child may lose connection with their first language. Downloading Duolingo or Babbel can help you learn to speak Spanish, and apps like Google Translate can help children and families as they learn to communicate with each other. Even learning short, common phrases can mean the world to a child. Watching movies or listening to music can also help a child feel comfortable and help foster parents learn the language.

Traditions

At PCHAS, we focus on cultural awareness as we prepare families to foster or adopt. As you think about how to honor other cultures within your family, start by asking children about the traditions they love the most. From there, some internet searching can point you to holidays and celebrations in Hispanic cultures, such as Día de la Independencia (Mexican Independence Day), Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) and Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day). Incorporating holidays into your family traditions ensures children that you are willing to learn about their culture and keep their roots strong.

Food

Food is an integral part of Hispanic culture. One PCHAS family shared, “Food was important to our foster children because it can be familiar to them. We made sure to incorporate things they like into the menu a lot, we didn't make it a big production, just meals for everyday life.” Involving them in the cooking process can also be an excellent opportunity to spend quality time together, strengthen your bond and show a child that you are willing to listen and learn.

Honoring a child’s culture is one of the best ways to show respect to the child and their family. It takes work, but it’s worth it.

Kids in our community need great families to foster and adopt. If you love learning about new cultures and are open to being family for children who need one, call us at 281-324-0544 or email fosteradopt@pchas.org to connect with a Foster Care & Adoption Guide.