Childbearing begins shortly after marriage. A woman's status is enhanced the more children she has. It is common for a Somali family to have seven or eight children. Family planning has little cultural relevance. In Seattle, Somalis have settled in the Central Area, Rainier Beach and SeaTac.
Most families continue traditional dress and cultural practices.
Community organizations Since the community is new to Seattle, no formal organization has been established and no official community leader identified. However, the community is close-knit and carries out many of the functions of a community organization. They are also trying to address the community's need for better child care services, ESL classes, and transportation for people traveling between SeaTac and Seattle. They treat infectious diseases, hunch-back, facial droop and broken bones. Traditional doctors also help cure illnesses causes by spirits.