One of the most important lessons any parent can teach a child is about appreciating the value of the world around them. By familiarizing them with other cultures and traditions, it can spark a desire to learn more, as well as become more accepting of others. As a homeschool parent, teaching diversity is even more important because these children are not necessarily exposed to as many other types of people as they would be in a public school. Since children learn best when their lessons are fun, here are a few ideas for inspiration.
Sample Unusual Cuisine
Children are often exposed to Mexican, Chinese and Italian cuisines, or at least an Americanized version of them. To give them a little more understanding of how children around the world eat, look for foods they have never sampled before, such as African food. Mandazi is a type of fried bread popular in Africa. It can be served as a either sweet or savory. Jollof rice is another African recipe, one of the most popular dishes in many African nations. Both are assembled from ingredients that are usually available locally, but even if a meal with unusual ingredients is chosen, remember that it is easy to buy African food online.
Teach Holiday Traditions
Holidays are the most exciting time in every child's life. Whether it is Easter, Halloween or Christmas, they will love to hear how children in other countries celebrate these days. Even birthday celebrations can be unique. For example, Hindu babies have their heads shaved on their first birthdays to cleanse their souls. Nepalese children have a dyed yogurt mixture smeared on their foreheads for good luck, and Lithuanian children sit in a decorated chair that is lifted in the air by family members.
Discover How They Play
Toys is always a popular subject, so it is fun to help them see what other children do for their playtime. Parents can even introduce them to familiar items created in other countries. The Rubik's cube is something everyone who lived through the 1980s will recognize. It was created by a Hungarian professor named Erno Rubik. Or teach them Kongki Noli, a Korean game similar to the old-fashioned games of Jacks.
There are numerous other ideas to consider, including clothing, jobs and even styles of homes. Parents can easily adapt any of these lessons to the age of the child or the child's own particular interests or hobbies. What makes it even more exciting is how much parents will enjoy researching this fun lesson.Share