ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the role of extended families in supporting parents to become effective guardians of their children. It discusses the cultural and ethnic differences which exist in the way Muslim, Hindu and Sikh communities view and practise intergenerational co-residency, co-existence and childcare arrangements. The chapter focuses on children of extended families in an educational context with an emphasis on valuing their mother tongue and the significance of partnership working with families. It describes a variety of ways children from these ethnic communities can be better supported in developing an understanding of how their contributions can add to a more harmonious and peaceful society. The chapter concludes that intergenerational and community support is becoming a more necessary ingredient in successfully raising children and young people. It could also be concluded that the impact of intergenerational childcare in the three different Asian communities may possibly determine the level and extent of their children's integration into the United Kingdom's mainstream life.
