7 Ways to Raise Global Child

 

Today's children are growing up in a globalized world. But how do you teach them to embrace and thrive among the planet's many cultures — from London to Tokyo?

Travel is an obvious answer, but far-flung trips may not figure into your vacation budget. Raising global children doesn't have to break the bank or feel like another task for your to-do list. Instead, make it a fun exploration and a unique opportunity to learn, enjoy, explore, and grow. Here are seven ways to get started:

1. "See" the World — At Home

Hang a world map in a high-traffic spot so children get familiar with (and curious about) country and city names, locations, cultures, and languages. Place a globe where they can reach it and they're sure to spin it and imagine far-off places. Consider other decorative items that have a global connection. Look for picture books that feature houses, gardens, recipes, or sports in far-off places. Do you have examples of foreign currency? 

2. Talk It Up

International news reports are full of difficult subjects, but you can find gentler ways to start a conversation. Perhaps a friend has an ethnic celebration coming up or children from another country have just enrolled at your child's school. Brazil, India, or China? Find those places on your map and talk about what life might be like there. You don't have to be an expert. Just your sincere interest serves as a powerful example that you care about the larger world.

3. Let Music Send a Message

You don't need to stop what you're doing to declare "Now we're going to listen to world music!" Just slip it into your music rotation. Dance to it while making dinner, listen while driving, or turn on a soothing selection at bedtime. 

4. Spice Up Family Movie Night

Try a family-friendly foreign film, especially those told from a child's point of view. Where would you like to go tonight — Mongolia, Italy, or Argentina?

5. Give Gifts of the World

Handmade art and crafts make terrific gifts. It's even better when you know the artisan benefited directly from the sale. Consider holiday, and birthday presents from a fair-trade store in your town or online. Children can find meaning and pride in a purchase that connects them to the bigger world.

6. Dip Into a Foreign Language

Find out if your child's school teaches any foreign languages. Can you support the effort or help get a program started? At home, try online learning programs and language software. 

7. Set Out to Serve

Offer your time and resources to make a difference. It cultivates empowerment, motivation, and a sense of global connection. Where to start? Talk to local people already engaged in service. A global perspective can begin a family adventure that connects us with diverse communities and helps us see beyond our immediate circumstances. It also prepares your children to succeed in an interconnected economy and society. Locally and globally, it's a win-win-win situation.