Teaching Your Child to Respect Other Cultures

Teaching your children about the many cultures of the world is an ideal way for them to understand and celebrate diversity. It will also give your child a better insight into the traditions and customs some of their friends may practice.

Here are some great tips from an independent school in Letchworth, on how to teach your kids to respect other cultures…

Start with your own background

Most families represent a mixture of ethnicities and backgrounds. Learning about your own family’s heritage is a great way to introduce different cultures to your child. Together research your family history and use a map to mark where your bloodline is from. Explore these countries; look up what life is like there and what traditions can be found there.

Celebrate holidays and festivals

A really fun way to teach your children about other cultures is to make a calendar of holidays and festivals that are celebrated around the world; for example, Chinese New Year, Diwali and Hanukkah. Add these events to your calendar and use each one as an opportunity to teach your child about the celebrations that are taking place. Discuss the people, the religion, the music, the food and any other interesting facts about each special occasion.

Try new recipes

Food is a great way to expand your child’s cultural awareness. 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.

Do your research

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

Role model respect

Finally, set a good example for your child by demonstrating cultural empathy and sensitivity. Teach your child to embrace diversity by respecting other’s beliefs, even if they are different from their own.

Nb. Collaborative post.