Wherever you are in the world, you’d be remiss if you’ve not encountered news of the plight of displaced migrants, especially children escaping from the horrors of war and abject poverty. They’ve to deal with many complex issues, from loneliness and displacement to language divide and trauma.
Families resettling in a new country will deal with the so-called culture shock as well as the initial estrangement. While adults may have an easier time assessing the situation and adapting, children need deeper levels of engagement and interaction with the new culture.
But assimilation can be very difficult for kids because of prevailing racism and discrimination. This leads to more stress and a perception of social disadvantage. For example, a migrant child might get bullied in his new school, which will lead to a lack of interest in studying and a heightened feeling of not belonging. It goes without saying that these are detrimental to their well-being and mental health.
Then there’s the issue of communication. Not being able to speak the common language may lead to further social isolation, not just for the children but for the parents who are trying to integrate into the community. Finally, most migrant families, especially refugees, deal with varying degrees of trauma. This is hard for the children mostly, leading to general fear and anxiety in front of new people.
The call then is for us to help them deal with these challenges from a culturally sensitive, economic, and linguistic standpoint. And a generally more humanitarian way.
Edgar Gonzalez supports Mexican families in Anaheim and the rest of Orange County through different projects that prioritize their welfare. For similar reads, visit this <ahref=”https://edgar-gonzalez-anaheim.blogspot.com/”>blog.
Edgar Gonzalez Anaheim 
