In this study, I explore the central research question: What are the ways of knowing Chinese immigrant mothers embody as they raise their young children with disabilities in the United States? By drawing on critical and decolonial theories, I situate my study in the intersection of culture, language, gender, race, and disability to explore in depth the knowing of Chinese immigrant mothers and their strengths in mothering. The results highlight three key themes: (a) 心平气和 xin ping qi he, which describes how the mothers’ spirit (qi) was in harmony with everything else; (b) 气氛 qi fen, which examines how the environment at home, school, and local communities of the mothers and their children affect their well-being and growth; (c) 大成若缺 da cheng ruo que, which explores how mothers embrace their children as the most perfect part of their lives despite any perceived imperfections. Based on these findings, I discuss the importance of recognizing and incorporating parent knowledge, as well as ways to support culturally responsive collaboration among families, schools, and communities.
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