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Raising African children between cultures, generations and expectations.

Parenting changes when the world our children are growing up in is different from the one that shaped us.

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What is The African Parent?

The African Parent (TAP) is an organisation supporting African parents and families through conversations about parenting, culture, identity and family life, alongside practical education advocacy and support. We explore how families raise children across different cultures, generations and expectations, and provide resources to help parents make informed decisions.

About TAP

Who is The African Parent for?

The African Parent (TAP) is for African parents and carers wherever they live, including families raising children in the diaspora. Our Parenting & Culture work explores experiences that cross geographical boundaries, while our specialist Education & Advocacy support currently focuses on families dealing with schools in England.

What parenting topics does TAP cover?

Our conversations focus on three areas:

  • Parenting & Authority
  • Culture & Identity
  • Family & Expectations

We explore subjects such as respect, discipline, independence, cultural belonging, language, academic pressure, extended family relationships and generational differences. We encourage parents to consider which values they want to preserve and which practices may need to change.

Explore Parenting & Culture

Can TAP help if I'm having problems with my child's school?

Yes. TAP provides practical information, resources and support for families dealing with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), exclusions, racial incidents and difficult relationships with schools in England. We can help parents understand relevant processes, organise documentation, prepare for meetings and identify appropriate next steps. We do not provide legal advice.

Get Education Support

Does TAP work with schools and other organisations?

Yes. We work with schools and institutions seeking to improve parental engagement, communication and relationships with African families. Our work focuses on practical improvements that help schools understand families' experiences, address barriers and develop more effective approaches to working together.

For Schools & Institutions

What is Join the Village?

Join the Village is TAP's free email community for people interested in African parenting, culture, identity and education. Subscribers receive new articles and occasional updates, generally around every two weeks. You can choose whether you're interested in Parenting & Culture, Education & Advocacy, or both, and unsubscribe at any time.

Join the Village

How can I contribute to The African Parent?

You can engage with TAP's published conversations and contact us with relevant ideas or partnership enquiries. TAP also maintains a separate, moderated WhatsApp community, with membership subject to an application process. Joining the email list does not automatically provide access to the WhatsApp community.

Join the Village

Join the Village

Get new TAP conversations, articles and occasional updates on the questions we're exploring.

Join the Village for thoughtful conversations about culture, identity and raising children in the world they actually live in.

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