Whether your family says, "Merry Christmas," "Happy Hannukah," or "Have a blessed Kwanzaa," during the holiday season, your child will quickly learn that the world is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. These differences may present themselves at school functions, in public settings, in television programs, or simply by observing their friends. Kids are kids, and they will no doubt have questions about people and traditions that are different from what they are accustomed to. Parents can help teach their children to understand that being different is something that people of all backgrounds can share and celebrate.
Whether it's a religious, family, or cultural tradition, the holidays are when kids may first notice that everyone does not celebrate the same way.
Winter holidays include the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, St. Lucia Day, Three Kings Day, Chinese New Year, Kwanzaa, Mawlid el-Nabi, and Watch Night—to name a few. In the Christian faith, Christmas is celebrated in many different ways, with some families having Advent wreaths and calendars, others celebrating midnight mass, and some honoring St. Nicholas Day.
When your child asks questions about a custom or holiday tradition, parents can use this as a family education opportunity. Some good things to frame your research include asking questions like, "Why is this holiday celebrated?" and "What is the holiday's origin?" As a family, you can research the holiday by searching online or visiting a local library, cultural center, or museum. Also, try to find children's books, kid-friendly TV shows, or online programs. After doing the research together, you can discuss the subject matter as a family and ask questions such as, "How is this faith or custom different from what our family celebrates?" "What do you find interesting about the other tradition?" By exploring the customs and traditions of others, it can be a learning experience for everyone.
In the spirit of appreciation, you and your child could also learn more about a different holiday or tradition by trying food used to celebrate the holiday and talking about the importance of those specific foods used in the celebration. You can find out more by looking for a multicultural cookbook or looking for recipes on the Internet. Further, you could attend a local holiday festival as a family, learn about aspects of the holiday similar to your traditions, and note the differences between the two.
Although holiday customs and traditions vary widely, one universal theme typically ties most all of them together—the spirit of giving. Whether it's Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Chinese New Year, giving is a significant part of these holidays. This is a good opportunity to teach your kids that, although we are different from many of our friends and neighbors, we share some of the same traditions.
Remember that teaching your children about different holidays and traditions strengthens your appreciation of everyone’s family celebrations. It helps us connect with what we have in common with each other. The holidays are a great time of year to share the gift of multicultural respect while enhancing gratitude of your customs and traditions.