Raising Kids in New Zealand - A guide for Migrant Parents

Raising kids in a new country can be challenging, especially if you're unfamiliar with the culture and customs. As a migrant parent in New Zealand, you should keep a few things in mind to help make the transition smoother for you and your children.

1. Familiarize yourself with New Zealand culture. This will help you understand the expectations and norms around raising children here. Many resources are available to help you learn about New Zealand culture, including books, websites and community groups.
2. Get involved in your child's school and education. It is essential to stay involved in your child's schooling to ensure they are getting the best education possible. There are many ways to get involved, such as joining the PTA or school board, helping with class activities or attending school events.
3. Be aware of your child's rights. All children in New Zealand have the same legal rights, regardless of their immigration status. It is essential to know these rights to ensure your child is treated fairly and has access to their full range of entitlements.
4. Seek out support if you need it. Many organizations and groups can support migrant parents, such as Parentline, the Migrant Action Trust and the Multicultural Families Association.
5. Have realistic expectations. It can take time to adjust to life in a new country. Be patient with yourself and your children as you all settle into your new home.

By following these tips, you can help make the transition to raising kids in New Zealand smooth.

Child Rights in New Zealand for Migrants

All children in New Zealand, regardless of their immigration status, have the same legal rights. These rights are set out in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which New Zealand ratified in 1993.

The UNCRC sets out several specific rights that all children have, including the right to:

• Life, survival and development
• Freedom from violence, abuse and neglect
• An adequate standard of living
• Education
• Health care
• Protection from harmful influences and exploitation

It is essential to be aware of these rights to ensure your child is treated fairly and has access to their full range of entitlements.

If you have any concerns about violating your child's rights, you can contact the Human Rights Commission or the Office of the Children's Commissioner.

Parentline

Parentline is a confidential telephone service for parents and carers of children aged 0-18. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Call 0800 568 856 (0800 LIFELINE) to speak to a trained counsellor who can provide support, information and referrals.

Migrant Action Trust

The Migrant Action Trust is a charitable organization that provides support and advocacy for migrant workers in New Zealand. They can advise and assist on various issues, including employment rights, immigration, housing and health.

Contact the Migrant Action Trust on 027 229 3502

New Zealand Council for Educational Research

The Migrant Action Trust is a charitable organization that provides support and advocacy for migrant workers in New Zealand. They can advise and assist on various issues, including employment rights, immigration, housing and health.

New Zealand Council for Educational Research

The New Zealand Council for Educational Research (NZCER) is an independent research organization specializing in education. They have a range of resources available on their website, including information on parenting, schooling and migrant education.

Visit the NZCER website (www.nzcer.org.nz) for more information.

The following organizations can also provide support and information to migrant parents:

• Community House (www.communityhouse.org.nz)
• Parenting Place (www.parentingplace.co.nz)
• Plunket (www.plunket.org.nz)
• Starship Children's Hospital (www.starship.org.nz)

Conclusion

Raising kids in New Zealand can be a daunting task for migrant parents, but getting involved in your child's education and knowing their rights is essential. Many organizations can provide support if you need it. By following these tips, you can help make the transition to raising kids in New Zealand smooth.