Cultural Considerations / Parenting Style
Many Hispanics have a unique parenting style that to other cultures may seem too permissive. They may:
- Address their children playfully at most times—or formally (with Usted) when they are angry.
- Expect the older children to help care for the younger ones.
- Expect the children to depend on the parents.
- Raise their children to identify with their family, community, and heritage.
How You Can Respond:
In your written communications,
- If you use dialogue between parent and child, write it in a respectful tone.
- Emphasize how connecting with the noncustodial parent may help increase the child’s sense of family and connect the child to his or her roots.
In your one-on-one interactions,
- Be aware and respectful of different parenting styles.