According to the U.S. Census, Hispanic immigrants are the fastest growing segment of the population. Immigration can be difficult for children as well as their parents, says UAB education expert Anarella Cellitti, Ph.D. Immigrant children experience various stages of emotions.
"Before arriving to the new country, they are full of hope. It's the fantasy stage. But after arriving, it's culture shock. They go through a silent stage. They don't know the language so they keep quiet in class. Children may also grieve for the family and friends they left behind."
The next stage, she says, is the anger stage. Cellitti says teachers must become more aware of the emotional pain experienced by immigrant children so that they can properly serve the children."
Contact Gail Short, Media Relations, 205-934-8931 or [email protected].
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