Lucy’s Family Tree is the story of Lucy, adopted from Mexico, who believes she cannot do a family tree assignment because her family is too different. Lucy’s parents are understanding, but refuse to write her an excuse not to do the homework, as she at first demands. Lucy wishes she were in a “typical American family”. Her father makes a bet with her: if she can find three truly “typical” American families, he will help her plant the tulip garden she’s been wanting. Lucy lists three of her friends whom she believes are from typical families, as well as three … Continue reading →

As children settle into the new school year this week, some will encounter curiosity from classmates. Younger children may be asked, “is that your real mom and dad?” If they are from a non-diverse area, they may have comments about skin color or physical features. Older children may have teachers ask if their parents speak English. One middle-schooler found that her teachers’ attitude toward her changed when they met her white mother. The teachers had assumed that the girl was an illegal alien and that they wouldn’t be able to communicate with her parents. One of our blogger’s wrote about … Continue reading →