Teaching Your Kids to Respect Other Cultures

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Teaching your children about different cultures is a great way to help them learn how to respect and celebrate diversity. It will also give your kids a deeper understanding of the traditions and customs their classmates may follow. The ability to respect other cultures is a skill that will benefit your child throughout their lifetime.

Here are some great tips from Newton College on how you can teach your kids to respect other cultures…

• A really fun way to teach your kids about other cultures and traditions is to explore various holidays and celebrations around the world. For example, Chinese New Year, Diwali, Hanukkah or Ramadan. Add these events to your family calendar and use each one as an opportunity to teach your child about the celebrations that are taking place across the globe. Discuss the people, the religion, the music, the food and any other interesting facts about the special occasion.

• Expand your child’s cultural awareness through food. By cooking together you can introduce your child to many different foods from around the world. In addition, your child will learn about various ingredients, utensils and dining etiquettes shared by other cultures.

• Reading books and watching documentaries is an ideal way for your child to learn about different cultures and traditions. Books and media can help to transport us to anywhere in the world and experience new lifestyles. Spend time with your child exploring various cultures online and by reading books together.

• It is important to be a positive role model for your child, and demonstrate cultural empathy and sensitivity. Parents must lead by example and always embrace diversity. If you are not open-minded about other people, you can’t expect your child to be. When your child asks questions, use them as an opportunity to help your child understand and respect cultural and ethnic differences.