Immigration has become one of those hard topics in society. With the border crisis, it seems to become one that is political, and polarizing. However, it’s important to remember that immigrants are people and we, as Christians, are called to love others. So how do we love our new neighbors, and how do we disciple our children in that? Here is a short list of tools that guide families in how we can love neighbors who are immigrants.
The Welcome Family Tool Kit
This beautiful resource will equip your family to love our neighbors who are immigrants. It guides family in discovering what the Bibles says about immigration, through a reading plan, conversation starters and activities. Use this tool to challenge your family to get outside your comfort zone and love our neighbors.
Books
Books can be a beautiful way to show children a different perspective. What does life look like through the eyes of an immigrant? Here is a short list of our favorites.
Dreamers (Spanish: Soñadores) by Yuyi Morales
This is a picture book memoir, showing children (and adults) the story of how Yuyi came to the United States with her small son. Though initially hard and strange, they eventually found a way to make this land their home.
The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
This is the story of a little girl who moves from Korea. She is hesitant to share her real name, so instead tells her new classmates that she will choose a name by the end of the week. However, one of her classmates finds out her real name and it’s special meaning. They encourage her to embrace her name and all learn how to pronounce it! This sweet books explored the difficulties some immigrant children may face when noone pronounces their name correctly. It also models an appropriate way for children to respond when meeting someone with a name from a different culture.
Carmela Full of Wishes (Spanish: Los Deseos de Carmela) by Matt de la Peña
From the same author as “Last Stop on Market Street” this book follows a little girl on her birthday. She thinks about all the things she could wish for. Whimsical wishes like getting a candy machine. But also wishing “her father could get his papers fixed and finally come back home.” This story is sensitively written, and relateable for small children.
Lailah’s Lunchbox by Reem Faruqui
Lailah is in a new school, and though she misses home, she is excited she is old enough to observe Ramadan. However, she is nervous about what her classmates will think. With the help of her teachers, she learns that she can make new friends who respect her beliefs.
The Seeds of Friendship by Michael Foreman
Adam has just moved to a new city that is very different from home. However, with the help of new friends and some seeds, he is able to make a new home.
A Contar Amabilidad/Counting Kindness by Hollis Kurman
This is a gentle book for introducing the topic of refugee resettlement with littles. It will inspire age-appropriate conversations with preschoolers.
Welcome Kit Packing Party
Looking for a hands-on way to love our neighbors? Consider packing Welcome Kits for Border Perspective. Get a group of friends together and make it a party. Download our free Party Planning Bundle below!
CLICK HERE to download the FREE Party Planning Bundle
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