Korean American Parenting | Heart-to-Healing Fireside Chat Series

In this Heart-to-Healing Fireside Chat, Dr. Josephine Kim presents her expert perspectives and guidance on parenting, drawing from her experience and understanding as a Korean American. Her discussion provides a thoughtful exploration of the nuances and cultural considerations in raising children within the Korean American cultural context.

Dr. Josephine Kim is a Senior Lecturer on Education at Harvard University and the founder of Mustard Seed Generation (MSG). She is also a licensed mental health counselor and national certified counselor.

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📌 Here's a snapshot of what happened:

1️⃣ Opening video:    • Children Of Asian Immigrants Reveal S...  
At the beginning of the event, we watched this short video to open up our conversation around parenting. It has not been included in our video due to copyright restrictions; however, feel free to watch the video at your own leisure.

2️⃣ Fireside Conversation with Dr. Josephine Kim: Korean American Parenting

0:00 Introduction
0:22 Meet Dr. Josephine Kim
1:12 How have your own experiences raising children influenced your views on parenting within the Korean American community?
5:40 Based on your journey, what advice would you give to younger Korean American parents who are just starting out?
10:43 Our families live in the U.S. Is it important for our children to know the Korean culture and language?
15:40 Mental health can be a sensitive topic in Korean American families. What are some effective ways for parents to start conversations about mental health with their children?
26:20 How do we raise children who are mentally healthy?
34:05 What advice do you have for parents who struggle with reconciling their expectations for their children with the aspirations their children have for themselves?

3️⃣ Interactive Q&A Session
Participants at the live event were able to directly ask their questions and receive answers from Dr. Josephine Kim.

41:00 Are you aware of any mental health challenges that tend to be experienced at higher rates among Korean American youth?
51:35 What practical steps can DINKs (dual income, no kids) take to prepare for parenting and maintain a healthy relationship as a couple?
55:27 What advice do you have for parents trying to break away from the parenting methods they grew up with, while acknowledging that their parents' approach wasn't entirely negative?
59:37 I want my son to find what he is naturally drawn to and have talents for. What should I emphasize to my son as more general social skills like good writing?
1:06:35 While at a restaurant, my son and I experienced racial discrimination from someone nearby. My son was very upset, but I struggled to respond because English is my second language. What can I do to support my son in these situations? What can I say to my son who was emotionally upset about the whole situation?
1:11:41 How can KA parents can maintain balance and our own mental health as we navigate complex dynamics, such as being a part of large extended families and the sandwich generation?
1:17:14 How do I support my teenage son in finding a sense of purpose?
1:24:35 Resources

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