Abdul* was only 2 years old when he joined IRIS’ Family Literacy program. He barely escaped the bombings near Kabul airport with his family. When he arrived in Connecticut, IRIS enrolled him and his mother in our Family Literacy Program— a welcoming space for immigrant mothers and their children to learn English and connect with others.

At first, Abdul had a hard time separating from his mother during class. His mother worried that the high ceilings of the classroom reminded him of the chaos from Kabul’s airport.

Determined, she continued to bring him to IRIS’ Family Literacy program. Day by day, Abdul became more comfortable, playing games and interacting with other children.

Over time, Abdul came out of his shell. He followed classroom routines and encouraged his classmates, taking them under his wing.

After a year of Family Literacy, Abdul moved on to a head start program, where he is thriving. Thanks to our teachers and volunteers, Abdul was given the space needed to acclimate, allowing him to reclaim his childhood.

This year, IRIS’ Family Literacy program welcomed 22 children like Abdul, and 38 immigrant women. In addition to English classes, Family Literacy also provides classes on parent education, health, and takes field trips to help newcomers learn about their community. This year, IRIS hosted trips to Rose Orchard, the New Haven Library and CT Children’s Museum.

The program has three children’s rooms— a room for infants, a toddler room, and a preschool readiness room, for two and three-year-olds. Pashto and Dari speaking assistant teachers help take care of the children and provide interpretation.

When three-year-olds become school ready, IRIS helps them transition to preschool. We make sure kids like Abdul are set up for success in their new home.

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*Name has been changed for privacy
Photography © Liah Sinquefield