Go to REEP's program homepage. Go to Arlington County's website.
REEPworld home > FAMILY > Schwan > Listen  
< BACK       NEXT >
Read Schwan's Story

Introduction

All parents worry about their children.  
This mother and father worry about their children, too.  
Their lives are different in the United States.  
The family is living in two cultures.  
There are many decisions to make in a new country.  

My name is Schwan    .

I am Newaz' husband.    

My family came to the U.S. three years ago.    

This country is very good for our two children.    

Our family is safe here.    

Our children will go to university and have good jobs.    

In my country, I was an engineer.    

Now, I don't use my education at my job.    

Sometimes I worry about my children.    

My son is learning English and history in school.    

Is he also learning to drink alcohol and take drugs?    

I see that many teenagers in the United States are ashamed of their parents.    

I want my children to respect us.    

We are Kurdish from Iran.    

I want my children to read and write in English and in Kurdish.    

My wife and I want to teach our children the best from Kurdish and American culture.    

Is it possible?    

Conclusion

The children are in a new country.  
They have many good opportunities.  
They have many bad opportunities, too.  
What can a mother and father do?  
They can talk to their children.  
Maybe it is difficult, especially with teenagers, but don't stop talking.  
Eat together every day and talk.  

< BACK       NEXT >