Episode Details

Immigration is in the news, in our communities, and sometimes in our own families. But how do we explain it to kids without scaring them? Elise Hu talks with comedian and writer Negin Farsad about what her daughter has noticed, and what Negin chooses to share. Children’s author Duncan Tonatiuh joins to share how his book Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote helps kids understand the dangers and resilience behind migration stories. From undocumented families to family separation headlines, this conversation shows parents how to talk about immigration as part of our shared story, while giving children hope, safety, and practical ways to understand their world.

Key takeaways for parents:

Show the kids in your life that immigration is part of America’s shared story.

When tough headlines come up, acknowledge them and offer age-appropriate context instead of avoiding the subject.

Use books and stories to build empathy, showing both the risks and the resilience in migration journeys.

Talk about civic values like rights, community, and responsibility.

Balance safety with normalcy: give kids tools like memorizing a phone number while still letting them enjoy the fun of childhood.

⏱️ Timestamps:

Keep the conversation going at home with our FREE Conversation Kit companion guide: https://delivery.shopifyapps.com/-/ed0fd48c366bfcc5/f9e9fe86fd9c42cf

Follow Negin Farsad on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neginfarsad

Follow Duncan Tonatiuh on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duncan.tonatiuh/

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