This report examines what family means to children and adults in the following countries: Brazil, India, Guyana, South Africa, Egypt, Mexico, Russia, Kenya. The storytellers use evidence from 59 short films made using digital storytelling technique.
Through this technique, it was found that there are a range of family types, all with equal value in children’s lives. Many who made the films spent significant parts of their childhood living with extended family. Many spoke on the pain of separation.
The report notes that policies should not support one family type from another. It states that separation from parents can be traumatic, however extended family carers can often provide equal or better care. Families are often a vital source of love and support.
