Kids are likely to pick up the culture they are most exposed to. Living in a foreign land, it becomes difficult to have your children learn their native culture. Let’s look at a few ways to induce Indian culture and etiquette in your kids.
Indian culture is vibrant. Let them experience different aspects of it. Visit an Indian folk dance with them, or expose them to ancient Indian culture through art. They are also likely to enjoy the food – it’s in their genes after all! You can either cook it yourself or visit one of the many restaurants that provide Indian food for kids. Don’t hesitate to wear Indian clothes. All children reach an age where they need to find their own identity, and fashion is an easy way to get through to them.
While planning your vacations, keep India in mind. The country is geographically, and culturally diverse. Your children can see everything from a desert to a snow-land, a super-urban city to a village, in India.
Following festivals is also an important part of inducing Indian culture and etiquette among your kids. Be it Diwali or Holi, there is a joy in learning about and celebrating different festivals.
Most importantly, don’t force too much upon your kids. They have a mind of their own and sometimes reject things that are forced too strongly upon them. Instead, keep in mind that children are most likely to learn by example, so make sure you incorporate Indian culture into your life so that they can learn from their earliest role models.
