Family

Learn more about the inspiring history of JA farming families and the Southern California-based project to preserve their stories.

I would rather my son start playing video games than just watching TV. I believe there are a lot of benefits to playing video games, despite it being unfairly blamed for violence and obesity.

Our inaugural year of Yo! Camp was something magical. Let's explore where that magic comes from.

A bucket list for families to embrace an adventure mindset with kids during the summer.

How one farm in Irvine, CA created an annual tradition that continues to bring the community together and change people’s lives around the world.

I started my pre-loved fine gold jewelry business, Teruko Jewelry, on a whim—I knew nothing about solid gold, the value of gold jewelry or even how I would mail out orders. But when the scariest thing in the world has happened to you, things that might have seemed daunting feel manageable.

Thank you Ji-chan for teaching me and exposing me to Japanese art forms. Your efforts to teach me about my Japanese culture have not gone unnoticed.

Lisa and Steven answer some relationship questions from the Yo! editorial team.

I'm not big about hugging. But is it because I was raised that way?

If someone were to ask me about my childhood, the first memories that would rush into my mind would all revolve around my time spent with my grandmother.

Gia Gunn chats about her journey from dancing Nihon-buyo as a child to RuPaul's Drag Race to self discovery and activism.

No two ozoni are alike. Join us as we explore the variety of mochi from around the world.

A family mochitsuki can be a great way to bring the family together for the holidays and it's easier than you think.

Traditional mochitsuki is a long-time tradition of the Yasukochi Family. Here's a family members perspective of the annual event.

To Santa or not to Santa, that is the question. More than ever, it takes a lot of effort and maneuvering on the parents’ part to keep this magic alive. Some will say that the fight is worth it, others will argue it’s time to stop lying to our kids—because yes, that is what it takes sometimes to keep it going. Lying.

The magic sweet spot for friends’ kids gifting is it has to be useful enough for the parent to appreciate it, but still fun for the kid (because you want to be the cool one), and also something kind of off the mainstream path so the parent hasn’t gotten it for them yet. Oh and obviously not super expensive because dude, you’re just the weird auntie/uncle still, and no need to invest in that kind of relationship.

Small talk is small talk, I get that. But I do wish that these “new parent-isms” we spit out at these folks were a bit more helpful.

Mental health and therapy have always been taboo topics within the Asian American community. But, if we’re able to move past that stigma, therapy can be a life-changing, super-charged version of self-care. 

When certain nostalgic cravings hit, I love the idea of getting to follow family recipes. The eating portion is great, the "aw I get to connect with my family" is great, but the "here's a semi-legible recipe/grocery list, good luck" makes it much more of a challenge.

Examining the allure of Solvang, California in an attempt to better understand my parents.

Explore some of the conversations Japanese Americans have had with their kids about racism, what they wish they'd talked about earlier, and how the dialogue may have evolved over time.

What are we going to do with all this old stuff?

Homemade kombucha, forts, sourdough crackers, and a chicken coup? Indoor time with the family means time to get creative.

Christmas cards feel like a holiday staple, but not everyone feels the ~spirit~ of the exchange. Are you #TeamChristmasCards??

Deep down, we know it's important to make an effort to hear our grandparents' stories, but starting those conversations can sometimes be challenging. Here's another reminder that it's definitely worth trying.

Growing up with multiple languages and cultures can mean barriers between family. But, there is beauty in finding common ground where there are gaps.

We love and appreciate our families, but as Japanese Americans, it can be hard to verbalize our feelings.

It's the most pumpkin time of the year! We've compiled a list of fun activities to do to stay safe, but still have a happy Halloween.

Trivia, pictionary, origami, and charades -this game has it all! Test out your knowledge of the Japanese American community with this unique take on the beloved game Cranium. For ages 16 and up.

Test your Hiragana skills with this fun and free game! For kiddos (and parents!) 6 years and up.

Love board games? Come on this journey with me to judge board game packaging. For readers 8 and up.

You have a scenario, a delivery framework, and your wit. What's the best one-liner you can deal? Grab a group of friends and have a good time!

For many students and young adults, moving back home is the new norm. Some might be quick to say that students get the short end of the stick, but who's to say it's a walk in the park for parents? Read some tips for adjusting to living under one roof again.

With this journey map activity, you’ll be able to gather some clues about your family’s history. Perfect for all ages - take a look and see what’s inside!

Fathers and father figures usually give us sound advice, support us through thick and thin, and guide us through our lives. Which mantra do you embody?

Japanese American dad fashion: you know it when you see it and you definitely love to poke fun at it, but you also wouldn’t change a thing.

As kids, we loathed the idea of turning into our moms. As adults, there's nothing we love more than seeing the ways their habits and values live on in us.

We love our mamas and our maternal figures. Here's a fun way to reflect on all of the wonderful and useful tidbits they've passed on to us.