Children's Institute of Cultural Appreciation and Understanding

06/19/2026

Today, CICAU joins communities across the nation in recognizing Juneteenth, a day that celebrates freedom, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of equality.

At CICAU, we believe that fostering cultural awareness and understanding begins with learning about our shared history. Juneteenth serves as an important reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and the value of honoring the diverse experiences and contributions that have shaped our nation.

By educating ourselves and future generations, we can build stronger communities rooted in empathy, respect, and inclusion.

We encourage families, educators, and community members to take time today to reflect, learn, and celebrate the rich history, culture, and achievements of Black Americans.

❤️💚🖤

06/18/2026

🌟 Welcome to the CICAU Board of Directors, Alexia Friedberg!

We are thrilled to welcome Alexia Friedberg to the CICAU Board of Directors. Alexia brings more than 17 years of experience in public education, serving Montgomery County Public Schools as both a classroom teacher and Reading Specialist. Throughout her career, she has worked closely with students and families from diverse cultural, linguistic, socioeconomic, and learning backgrounds.

Her experiences have strengthened her belief that education is a powerful tool for building understanding, fostering empathy, and creating stronger communities, values that align closely with CICAU’s mission to promote cultural awareness, understanding, and acceptance among young people.

Please join us in welcoming Alexia to the CICAU family! We look forward to the knowledge, passion, and perspective she will bring as we continue empowering children to celebrate diversity and become engaged global citizens.

05/21/2026

🌍✨ Celebrating World Culture Day!

At CICAU, we are dedicated to helping children explore and appreciate the rich diversity of cultures that shape our world. Through engaging literature, storytelling, arts, and hands-on learning experiences, we support young people in understanding their own identities while developing respect and appreciation for others.🌐

Join us in honoring the traditions, voices, and experiences that bring our communities together and make them stronger. ❤️

Get involved with CICAU and support our mission by partnering, volunteering, or learning more about our cultural education programs. Click here to learn more 👉 cicau.org

05/18/2026

May is Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a meaningful time to celebrate the rich histories, cultures, traditions, and contributions of AAPI communities. 🌏✨

At CICAU, we believe cultural education creates opportunities for children and families to learn from one another, build empathy, and strengthen community connections. Through diverse books, storytelling, art, music, food, and shared experiences, young people gain a deeper appreciation for the many cultures that shape our world. 📚💛

This month, we honor the voices and stories that inspire understanding, inclusion, and belonging. We encourage families to explore books by AAPI authors, support cultural events, try new traditions, and continue conversations that celebrate diversity and connection.

How are you and your family celebrating AAPI Heritage Month? Share with us in the comments below! ⬇️

04/23/2026

This month, we’re proud to celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Arab Americans 🤍

It’s also an opportunity to highlight the importance of cultural appreciation and understanding, learning from one another, embracing different perspectives, and building meaningful connections. When students share their stories and learn from each other, it helps foster empathy, respect, and a strong sense of belonging.

At CICAU, we are committed to creating spaces where every voice is heard and valued.

04/09/2026

A heartfelt thank you to Monica Saigal for leading such an engaging and inspiring author workshop with middle school students at The Banner School using Karma and the Art of Butter Chicken! 📚✨

We’re so grateful for how you shared your writing journey, giving students a real look at the patience, revisions, and dedication it takes to bring a story to life. You helped them see that great writing takes time and perseverance. Thank you also for sharing your cultural heritage and background, and for showing how powerful it is to bring one’s identity into storytelling.

Most importantly, thank you for encouraging students to find their voice and keep writing. Your session was a beautiful reminder that every story matters. 🙏

Check out Monica's collection at https://monicabhide.com/books/

03/24/2026

🌏📚 New Blog Post! ⭐️

How can we help students feel seen, respected, and confident in today’s diverse classrooms? It starts with small, intentional actions that celebrate culture, encourage understanding, and create a true sense of belonging for every child. ❤️

In our latest blog, Diversity and Education in America, guest author Mrs. Phyllis A. York, Executive Director of Empowering Community Leaders Network, Inc.- ECLN shares practical ideas for educators, families, and communities to support inclusive learning environments and help students grow academically and socially. ✨

🔗 Read more:
https://www.cicau.org/post/embracing-diversity-in-schools-three-practical-ways-to-help-students-thrive

Mrs. Phyllis A. York, Executive Director, Empowering Community Leaders Network, Inc. (ECLN) and former Public School Classroom Teacher and AdministratorAs an educator and administrator who has served in some of America’s finest public school systems for over 30 years, I’ve learned that diversity...