Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
Mother’s Day is significant for Hispanic culture. Our Hispanic clients always showed nostalgia for the celebration of this day. The day before, or the Friday before, schools, companies and institutions take half of the day to celebrate Mother’s Day in our Hispanic countries. Flowers, gifts, poems, and songs enhancing our love, and respect for these women who are the hearts of our families. Also, mothers would like to leave this legacy to their children.

Response:
ISUE decided  to celebrate this day and demonstrate to our Hispanic clients that we respect and appreciate their traditions and, at the same time, use the celebration as an opportunity to reinforce positive parenting skills. Therefore, we prepared a two-hour celebration. We called our clients personally to invite them to the event May 9 in the Extension conference room. The program included 40 minutes of parenting classes where we talked about “Self –care: Is it ok for your child?”, and “Almost a Teen.” We also prepared a bilingual brochure with a flower on the front, a poem in Spanish inside, and our information in both languages on the back.

Impact:
Eleven mothers and fifteen children between the ages of eight months and four years old participated. They enjoyed the parenting class, and  spent time with their kids doing a craft activity, playing music and enjoying healthy snacks. Participants expressed their appreciation to the Extension staff.

Contact:
Nancy Nicho
Woodbury County Extension
4301 Sergeant Rd, Ste 213
Sioux City, IA 51106
712-255-0364
nicho@iastate.edu