Nurturing Growth: Somali Families' Perspectives on How They Support Their Children's Development, Identity, and Learning

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 1:45 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: Reimagining Early Childhood Educational Research (Table 5)

Abstract

As policies and programs strive for greater inclusivity and cultural relevance, especially in education, exploring how to best support Somali families with young children becomes crucial. This qualitative study aims to contribute to the limited literature on Somali families with young children in the early learning years by addressing the research question: How do Somali families cultivate their children’s development, identity, and learning? Employing Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) and a Decolonial Lens, this study delves into these inquiries through the lens of Somali mothers. The research employs ten individual interviews and four community design circles. The findings of this study underscore the profound significance and interconnectedness of religion (deen), culture (dhaqan), and the lived experiences of the mothers.

Author

• Asha Warsame, University of Washington