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What is the Value of Teaching Kids About Cultural Traditions?

Being a part of the global writing community, I’m inspired to explore diverse cultures and perspectives. Growing up in India, a country known for its diversity, exposed me to various cultural traditions from a young age. Interestingly, even within the same country, we find remarkable variations. For instance, New Year’s Day falls on different days in different regions. It is celebrated as Pohela Boishakh in Bengal, Baisakhi in Punjab, Vishu in Kerala, Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, and Diwali in Gujarat – each with its unique customs and traditions.  Thus, India may seem to be a miniature replica of the world’s diversity. It is so important that we keep teaching kids about cultural traditions and values.

Observing these cultural nuances prompts us to look at the broader view of diversity across the world. In other parts of the world, variations of the New Year include, the Chinese New Year, Rosh Hashanah or the Jewish New Year, Nowruz or the Persian New Year, and Songkran or the Thai New Year. But still on 1st January, we find people from different communities coming together to welcome the new year. Despite the varying dates, customs and traditions, the underlying sentiment remains the same – the hope and desire for a new beginning.

It’s important to understand the shared values that – Teaching Kids About Cultural Traditions and Values brings into our lives~

Cultural Variations in Greetings

When interacting with another culture, the first thing that often comes to mind is the form of greeting. Most people would greet an Indian saying, “Namaste.” This popular phrase means,  “I bow to you.” However, it is not the only form of greeting in the country. For instance, in Bengal, the greeting is “Nomoshkar,” while in Punjab, it’s “Sat Sri Akal.” Other forms of greeting include “Vanakkam” in South India, “Khamma Ghani” in Rajasthan, and “Adab” in the Muslim community. The common sentiment behind the various greetings is recognizing the divine in others as a uniting force.

Shaking hands is perhaps the most common way of greeting. Still, we come across various forms of greeting across the world, varying in their degrees of formality and informality. Greetings can range from the respectful bows in Japan to the warm hugs in America. It can also be as simple as a casual wave. However, we may not be familiar with every culture’s term for greeting. But if we recognize the shared value of connection and approach each with understanding and an open mind, we can avoid awkwardness.

Traditional Craft: A Tangible form of Cultural Diversity

Culture also finds expression in traditional arts and crafts, embodying the timeless relevance of artistic expression in human life. Traditional crafts showcase the ingenuity of emerging artists and the wisdom of ancestors, ultimately contributing to human achievements.

Bengal’s terracotta pottery, Bihar’s Madhubani paintings, Kashmiri shawls, and teak woodcraft are some common household names in India. Among these, terracotta or baked earth stands out as a common element  in traditional crafts across many cultures. The iconic Bankura horse of Bengal is a great example of this.

From the terracotta tradition of Bengal to Chinese pottery traditions, the common goal is to preserve and nurture the community through creativity. Similarly, Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, the Batik textile art of Indonesia, American quilting, and African basketry all reflect the human instinct to create, preserve and leave a legacy.

Festivals: Celebrating Shared Values

Festivals are another significant aspect of culture, involving not only customs and rituals but also deep meanings and emotions. India is known as the land of festivals. Diwali, the most well-known Indian festival, is commonly associated with oil lamps, fairy lights, fireworks, rangoli, and sweet treats. However, despite shared religious roots, Diwali is celebrated differently across regions. For some, Diwali marks the triumphant return of Lord Rama, while others invoke the goddess of fortune, or worship the mother goddess. At the heart of the festivities lies the shared purpose of celebrating the victory of good over evil.

Similar to Diwali, we find the significance of light in other cultural festivals too. Candle lighting during the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, the lantern  festivals across Asia, and the use of fairy lights during Christmas all share a common goal – to dispel darkness and invite light into our lives. All festivals regardless of religious or cultural differences ultimately share the human desire to connect, share and celebrate life.

At the Heart of Diversity

Understanding diversity is not just about being aware of our differences, it’s about appreciating the shared values that remind us of our common humanity. When we are rooted in this feeling of oneness, we can stay authentic to our identity and also appreciate the diversity that surrounds us. The threads that weave our cultures together make this world a complete masterpiece. While our shared values unite us, the diversity of our cultural traditions adds colors to the world and enriches the human experience. By embracing our shared values, we can create a harmonious and deeply connected world. 

Our world, comprising diverse communities, is our shared home. The ancient Indian language, Sanskrit, offers a beautiful phrase, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which translates to “the world is one family.” If we could hold on to this idea in our hearts, we would truly feel at home regardless of where we are. So Keep On Teaching Kids About Cultural Traditions and Values.

 

Adrita Goswami is an India-based children’s book author and a co-author of several anthologies. She has been published both traditionally and independently. Her chapter book, ‘Tia and the Terracotta Horse’ showcases the diversity of India through the travel adventures of a young Bengali girl and her magic horse. Apart from writing, Adrita finds joy in reading, music, photography, and learning new things.

 

 

 

 

 

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Integrating Social Emotional Growth for Success in Kids’ Lives

In an era where children’s lives are increasingly structured and digitalized, it’s imperative to introduce activities that promote mental tranquility and physical vigor. This guide explores several enriching practices, each designed to enhance the holistic well-being of children. From establishing a soothing bedtime ritual to fostering strong social connections, these activities are tailored to nurture the mind, body, and spirit of our young ones. They offer a balanced approach to parenting, ensuring children grow up with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of modern life. Integrating social emotional growth in kids’ lives in important for long term success.

Make Quality Time a Priority

With life often being hectic, it’s vital to carve out time to focus solely on your children. This could mean engaging in shared activities like board games, exploring nature, or having meaningful conversations. Such dedicated moments can strengthen bonds and provide emotional support. Parents.com suggests activities that cater to your child’s interests, making these moments more engaging and memorable. These interactions are pivotal in nurturing a strong familial relationship and understanding your child’s evolving world.

Improve Your Lighting

The right lighting can have a big impact on your child’s ability to find calm and focus, especially when you’re trying to encourage mindfulness. Bright, harsh lighting can feel overwhelming, while softer, warmer light creates a more peaceful environment. When your child is trying to relax or concentrate, dimming the lights or using natural light can help them feel more at ease and present. Mindful activities like reading, meditation, or quiet reflection become more effective in a soothing, well-lit space. Creating this kind of calming atmosphere can make it easier for your child to settle into a focused, mindful state. To make sure everything is safe, click here for information on how to ask an electrician about your setup.

Introduce Breathwork

Teaching children simple yet effective deep breathing techniques is a powerful tool for managing stress. By learning these skills, children can better navigate and respond to the various challenges they encounter, fostering a sense of calm and balance. Make these exercises fun and age-appropriate, perhaps through imaginative scenarios or using visuals. Regular practice can help integrate these techniques into their daily routine, offering a go-to method for managing emotions.

Choose Stimulating Toys

Select educational toys and physical play equipment that stimulate both mind and body. Look for toys that encourage problem-solving and creative thinking, such as puzzles or construction sets. These playthings not only entertain but also contribute to cognitive and physical development, offering a more enriching play experience. Your pediatrician can advise you on finding the best options for your child, or you can talk with a child development specialist.

Focus on Nutrition

Promoting a diet rich in diverse, healthy foods is crucial. Constructive Eating notes that engaging children in the process of preparing meals can instill lifelong healthy eating habits and serve as an enjoyable bonding experience. This involvement can range from selecting fresh produce at the store to assisting in simple cooking tasks. Educating children about the benefits of different foods can also make them more inclined to try new and nutritious items, setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy eating choices.

Encourage Creative Play

It’s important to allocate time for unstructured play, which is key to nurturing imagination and creativity. Let children delve into activities they love, be it building, drawing, or outdoor adventures, providing a vital outlet for self-expression. This free play is not just about having fun; it plays a crucial role in developing problem-solving skills and resilience. Encourage your child to take the lead in these play sessions, fostering independence and confidence in their ideas and abilities.

Strengthen Relationships

Facilitating strong social ties is essential for children’s emotional development. Organize social interactions like playdates, and encourage participation in team sports, which can teach valuable skills such as teamwork and empathy. These interactions provide vital opportunities for children to learn social norms, communication skills, and how to build and maintain friendships. Such experiences are instrumental in developing a well-rounded individual capable of thriving in social settings.

Introduce Journaling

Encouraging children to maintain a journal offers them a personal space to articulate their thoughts and emotions. This practice can be incredibly therapeutic, aiding in their emotional growth and self-awareness. Guide them to use the journal not just for words but for drawings, collages, or any other form of expression that resonates with them. This creative outlet allows children to explore and understand their feelings in a safe and constructive manner, promoting emotional intelligence and self-reflection.

Maintain a Calming Bedtime Ritual

Establishing a bedtime ritual is fundamental in helping children unwind and prepare for a restful sleep. Incorporate calming practices such as reading tranquil stories or engaging in gentle mindfulness exercises. This routine is a cornerstone for their overall well-being. Additionally, include activities like listening to soft music or a warm bath, which can further enhance this calming experience. This consistent routine not only aids in better sleep but also instills a sense of security and routine in their daily life.

The journey of nurturing a child is about striking a balance between structure and freedom, guidance and exploration. By integrating these varied activities into their lives, we lay a foundation for children to grow into well-rounded individuals. Our role as caregivers is to provide an environment where they can thrive physically, emotionally, and intellectually. This approach to parenting is not just about immediate benefits; it’s about instilling habits and values that will serve them for a lifetime.

Inspire growth and inclusivity with Raising World Children, your go-to resource for empowering multicultural parenting!

A busy parent of three children, Ms. Campos understands the pressure and challenges of working moms and dads face. When she’s not working or running her children to various after-school activities, Ms. Campos loves to practice yoga, CrossFit, and watching The Great British Baking Show. You can learn more from the website she founded for parents here. WellParents 

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Simple Ways to Spark a Love for Learning

Children are naturally inquisitive, driven by a desire to understand the world around them. When parents channel this curiosity, they open doors to lifelong learning. Creating a supportive, stimulating environment at home encourages children to see learning as an exciting part of their everyday lives, not just something confined to classrooms or textbooks. Nurturing Curiosity: Simple Ways to Spark a Love for Learning in Your Child…

Enrich Daily Life with Learning

Learning doesn’t have to be confined to the classroom. By weaving educational opportunities into daily activities, you can show your children that knowledge is everywhere. For instance, cooking together can be a fun way to teach math and science concepts, like measuring ingredients or understanding chemical reactions during baking. Taking trips to museums or attending cultural events can broaden their horizons and introduce them to new ideas and cultures. Encouraging a reading habit, even starting with just 30 minutes a day, can foster intellectual growth and curiosity, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning. These experiences not only enhance critical thinking but also prepare them for future challenges.

Create a Study Haven at Home

Creating a dedicated study space at home is crucial for nurturing a love of learning. This space should be free from distractions and equipped with necessary educational tools like notecards, writing utensils, and highlighters. Choose a spot with good lighting and comfortable furniture to improve focus and productivity. Personalizing this area with motivational images or posters can inspire your child to engage more deeply with their studies. A well-organized learning zone provides a serene environment that supports concentration and academic success.

Make Learning Manageable and Fun

Breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable steps can make learning more approachable for children. This strategy not only makes goals seem less overwhelming but also boosts confidence as they achieve each milestone. Research shows that simplified tasks enhance social and cognitive skills, making learning more enjoyable. By setting clear, achievable objectives, you help your children stay focused and motivated, reducing procrastination and keeping their curiosity alive.

Encourage Problem-Solving Through Play and Exploration

Engaging children in interactive activities and games is a fantastic way to develop their problem-solving skills. Encourage them to participate in collaborative projects or tackle challenges that require critical thinking. Outdoor activities like building a shelter from natural materials can foster creativity and real-world problem-solving. Games that require strategic thinking or memory skills not only sharpen their minds but also make learning fun and impactful.

Transform Screen Time into Learning Time

Educational apps provide a unique opportunity to make learning enjoyable and accessible. These apps offer activities tailored to different developmental stages, keeping your child engaged and motivated. By incorporating interactive elements like gamification, these tools capture children’s attention and enhance their understanding and retention of information. The growing popularity of digital learning solutions highlights the effectiveness of these resources in nurturing a love for learning.

Lead by Example in Embracing Your Own Learning Journey

Your own curiosity and enthusiasm for learning can inspire your children to value education. If you’ve been considering furthering your education, pursuing an online degree can offer the flexibility to achieve your goals while managing other commitments. For example, take a look at this: If you’ve always wanted to work in mental health, studying psychology can deepen your understanding of human behavior and equip you to support others effectively. By taking steps to enhance your learning you not only fulfill a personal ambition but also set a compelling example for your children, showcasing the importance of continuous education.

Open-ended Questions Encourage Critical Thinking

Asking open-ended questions encourages children to think critically and explore topics from different perspectives. Questions like, “What do you think would happen if…?” or “Why do you think that is?” invite them to go beyond simple answers, fostering deeper inquiry. This approach helps them connect ideas, form hypotheses, and develop problem-solving skills. It also signals that their thoughts and insights are valued, creating a safe space for exploration and curiosity. By engaging with these types of questions, children build confidence in their ability to think independently and tackle complex issues—a skill that will benefit them throughout life.

Supporting a child’s learning journey isn’t just about academic success—it’s about instilling a mindset that values exploration, curiosity, and resilience. When you build learning into the daily rhythm of life, you give them a foundation for growth that they’ll carry into the future. Help them embrace new experiences, pursue their interests, and enjoy the process of learning. This approach builds a deeper, more fulfilling connection to knowledge and to the world around them.

 

Jason Kenner is a dad who loves sports, cares about the planet, and is doing his best to be a great parent. Through On-Par Parent, he shares practical advice and lessons he’s learned about parenting and life—often inspired by sports but never pretending to be a pro at either. He’s here to help parents navigate challenges, teach their kids to make a positive impact, and maybe even share a laugh along the way. And yes, he’ll keep the sports puns in check. (Mostly!) Discover the power of cultural sensitivity and self-empowerment with Raising World Children — your go-to resource for inclusive books and insightful articles for raising confident, mindful global citizens!

 

Nurturing Curiosity: Simple Ways to Spark a Love for Learning in Your Child...

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How Different Cultures Approach Affects Early Childhood Education

What your child learns in his early years, becomes a part of their foundational education. It serves as a stepping stone in your child’s lifelong learning process. Early childhood education is not just about learning the numbers and the alphabet, it is more about their developmental journey and helping your child explore and understand the world around them. From languages to culture and values, your child is introduced to a worldview that allows them to be more aware and exposed.

Let’s discuss the importance of exposing your children to cultural diversity early and how it helps them, helps you as a family, and helps society.

Why is Cultural Diversity Important for Kids’ Early Education?

Your child’s early years help them form their core values and a worldly perspective. If you introduce them to cultural diversity during these formative years, you are laying the groundwork for them to be more accepting, understanding, and empathetic.

When children engage in culturally diverse activities, they learn about different traditions and languages and their experiences are not just natural but also valuable. The early introduction in their life to different cultures teaches them to be appreciative of how each culture is unique in its way.

A reflection of diversity in the classroom will help your child become ready for the real world. A diverse and multicultural learning environment is a mirror of real-world society, it helps your child develop the skills they need to thrive in the outside world. Whether it is about making friends dealing with someone from a different culture or collaborating later in life, the early years of learning help them find their way through life easily.

At Klay preschools and daycare, cultural diversity is a very important part of their curriculum. Through stories, music, arts, and traditions from around the globe children get to experience the beauty of diversity firsthand. Reading stories from across the world will give them a varied and wide point of view, music and traditions give them a rich sensory experience. These activities inspired by global cultures make your child more creative and teach them to appreciate differences.

How Different Cultures Approach Affects Early Childhood Education

Every culture has its different and unique approach toward early childhood education, and all of these ways have their roots in societal values and cultures. Let’s understand how these will help your child develop in their own way.

1.     Fostering Inclusivity and Acceptance

Cultural diversity helps your child accept the differences in every person and accept them with an open heart. They learn to accept and respect other people’s beliefs, languages, and customs.  When your child gets an understanding of how every individual is unique but equal at an early age, they grow up to be a compassionate human being who values inclusivity.

2.     Promoting Social Skills

When your child interacts with peers from different cultures, they learn to develop communication and collaborative skills. Your child learns how to be in social scenarios, how to share, resolve conflicts, and meaningful form relationships. They learn to adapt, which is very important in the interconnected world today.

3.     Enhancing Cognitive Development

When children are put in a scenario that has diverse traditions, multiple languages, and problem-solving skills it develops their cognition. Learning words in different languages and exploring a new culture will help your child build creativity. It broadens their intellect and it will boost your child’s confidence.

4.     Preparing for a Multicultural Society

It is a global world today and therefore children need to be comfortable and confident in multicultural settings. By introducing cultural diversity early, your child is learning to communicate and live harmoniously in school, at work, or in the community in general.

5.     Supporting Families and Communities

Culturally diverse learning environments don’t just benefit children but their families as well. Schools like Klay Preschool that offer diverse learning environments create a sense of comfort and belonging from all walks of life. By involving parents that celebrate different traditions, the environment they create for your child is very enriching.

The Benefits of Celebrating Cultural Diversity

Imagine your child participating in Diwali activities, learning about the lunar new year, or singing songs in multiple languages. Your child learns all of this while having fun but these activities go beyond that. They build your child’s curiosity and compassion.

Cultural diversity not only enhances their social skills but also gives them a sense of identity. They learn to be proud of their heritage and be respectful towards that of others.

Every parent wants to give their child the best possible start to education. Playschools are not just about academics, they are about shaping your child’s values and understanding of the world. By choosing a culturally diverse school, you are choosing for your child to become comfortable with multiple cultures.

At schools like Klay Playschool and Daycare, multicultural is not just a concept, it is an experience that is woven into every learning activity. So, as you guide your child towards learning in their early years, always remember that teaching them how to be different and yet be accepting of the differences of others and celebrating them is one of the biggest life lessons you can offer and together, we can raise a generation that embraces the beauty and diversity of differences and carries it forward.

Author Bio:

Chitra Khanna is the Content Strategist at KLAY Preschools and Daycare, where she leads content creation focused on early childhood education and parenting. With a background in digital marketing and a passion for empowering families, Chitra develops resources that engage and inform parents, helping them navigate the critical stages of their children’s development. Her creative approach and deep understanding of educational trends ensure that her content is both relevant and impactful. Outside of work, Chitra enjoys exploring new learning methodologies and contributing to discussions on child welfare and growth.

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Beyond the Classroom: Enriching After-School Program Ideas

Have you thought about various after school program ideas to help your kids develop their personalities? Exploring a range of enriching after-school activities is essential in supporting the overall development of children. These pursuits offer more than just entertainment; they provide opportunities for personal growth, skill enhancement, and the discovery of new passions. Dedicating time to engaging, thoughtful, and varied activities can significantly enrich a child’s daily routine, contributing to a well-rounded and fulfilling childhood experience.

Dive Into Robotics and Coding

Introduce your child to the fascinating world of technology with after-school robotics and coding workshops. These sessions offer a fun way to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. As children learn to program robots and create software, they also enhance their creativity and perseverance. This hands-on approach to learning not only prepares them for a tech-savvy future but also keeps them engaged and excited about new challenges. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to become fluent in the languages of the future.

Create Art Together

Creating art alongside your children offers a wonderful chance to both connect and inspire their creativity. Introduce the use of an AI art generator to bring a novel twist to your art-making sessions, where both of you can collaborate on digital masterpieces. By entering descriptions into the generator, you can experiment with various artistic elements such as shade, brightness, and design. Give this a view so you and your child can explore this interactive way to customize and create unique visual art, combining learning with fun.

Writing and/or Public Speaking Classes

Writing stories and essays is as essential a skill for public speaking, song writing etc as swimming. Engage your child in learning more about writing through programs that encourage their storytelling skills. Creative writing classes are a great addition to their personality development as well.

Interested in our Write to Publish 2025 program? Email contact@raisingworldchildren.com for details. Our new book by kids, for kids will be launched in the holidays of 2024. Watch this space.

Explore Global Flavors

Take your child on a culinary adventure right from your kitchen by hosting cultural cooking sessions. These classes are a great way to expose them to different cultures and cuisines from around the world. As they learn to prepare dishes like sushi, tacos, or pizza, children also develop practical skills in the kitchen, from measuring to multitasking, all while exploring the rich tastes and traditions of various countries. They’ll gain a palate for international flavors and a greater understanding of the world.

Find Volunteering Opportunities

Encourage your child to make a positive impact in their community by engaging in service projects. Whether it’s organizing a local clean-up or volunteering at a food bank, these activities foster a sense of social responsibility and compassion. Participating in community service not only benefits those in need but also helps children develop leadership skills and a lifelong habit of giving back. It’s an empowering experience that teaches them they can make a real difference.

Seek Hidden Treasures with Adventure Geocaching

Introduce your child to geocaching, a thrilling treasure hunt that combines outdoor adventure with problem-solving. Using a GPS device, families can search for hidden containers, called geocaches, in their local area or while traveling. This activity not only encourages physical activity and navigation skills but also adds an element of mystery and excitement to family outings. It’s a modern-day treasure hunt that brings adventure to everyday life.

Make Art from Recyclables

Transform everyday recyclables into stunning works of art through an upcycling art program. This activity allows children to express their artistic side while learning about sustainability. By using materials like old newspapers, broken toys, and empty containers, kids can create sculptures, collages, and more. It’s a fantastic way to teach resourcefulness and environmental responsibility in a creative, enjoyable setting. They learn to see the value in items that others might discard.

Try At-Home Science

Convert a corner of your home into a mini science lab where your child can conduct safe, supervised experiments. From making slime to learn about chemistry, building simple machines to explore physics, or using a microscope to examine local plants and insects, these activities make science accessible and engaging. A DIY science club is an excellent way for children to discover the wonders of the world around them through hands-on learning. They can play scientist in their own home, igniting a passion for discovery.

As we consider the impact of diverse after-school activities, it’s clear that they do much more than fill time. They shape skills, foster interests, and help young individuals grow into curious, knowledgeable, and capable adults. Encouraging children to participate in a variety of experiences is not just about keeping them busy—it’s about opening doors to new possibilities that can influence their futures in positive and profound ways.

Empower your family with cultural sensitivity and self-awareness through insightful resources and articles from Raising World Children.

 

Jason Kenner is just a dad who loves sports and adores his kids, who’s trying to be a good parent. The thing he realized as he started researching challenges he was facing with his own children, is there are a lot of similarities between sports and parenting. He also goes out of his way to teach them how to be a positive impact on the environment. So with On-Par Parent, he’ll share his best advice about both, but he won’t pretend to be a pro in either. And he promises to go easy on the sports puns!

Ajanta Chakraborty

Secrets to Being a Perfect Parent

Are there any secrets to being a perfect parent? Let’s sit down with author Rachael Perez and learn more about the how, why, whats of her writing journey and all that inspired her books. She has a wealth of knowledge as writer and parent and has been kind in her authentic sharing.

Please share a little bit about your cultural journey. 

Cultural journey….? Well, I am, what my parents called, a Heinz 57 variety. My cultural background includes Sicilian, Polish, Russian, German, French, and maybe other European ethnicities. Essecially, I am caucasian from an observers point of view. I always wanted to have a specific culture that I could be part of and be able to identify with but that was not the case. So my cultural journey has really just entailed me looking introspectively at myself and figuring out how I want to be perceived by others (personally and professionally). 

How did you come to do the work you do? 

Well, I’m a parent and a marriage & family therapist (MFT) and so my original inspiration came from toilet training my youngest daughter. She had many moments where objects (mostly toys) would get dropped into the toilet either on purpose or accident and I thought to myself that there had to be other parents dealing with this similar issue. I know most potty training books focus on helping young children to be comfortable on the toilet and feel like a potty superhero. I wanted to focus on it from a different angle. I created my cartoon character, Gia, who is a 4-year-old girl that is quirky, curious, funny and loves to learn. Then I started learning the digital drawing and put together my manuscript. I laugh at my original illustrations but they are kind of cute in their own way. 

Please share a life-changing moment and how you overcame the struggle. 

Parenting is such a complex and diverse subject. Everyone parents their children differently and hopefully comes out with positive results (obviously smart, well-adjusted, and strong individuals that grow into adulthood without any major problems). Learning how to be an “awesome” parent has been a constant struggle for me. I do my best to be as involved in my children’s lives without being weird or intrusive. My efforts to supervise and keep them safe have been more on the overprotective end of the spectrum (which can be seen as good or bad by others). The area I live in is highly populated and we don’t have a safe place for the kids to play outside. I’ve had to navigate my experiences with my own parents (and their parenting styles) and do my best not to act in the same ways.

Since parenting is a journey and a very intense learning experience, it is important to always reevaluate what and how you are doing. It is good to be part of other parenting groups so that you can observe other parents and choose which parts of the parenting process you want to adopt as your own.

  1. Don’t compare yourself to other parents – you may be better at some things and not as good as other parents. All parents have to have their own style and be true to themselves.
  2. Don’t be too hard on yourself when you feel like you did something wrong. The only really wrong things are abuse and/or neglect. As long as you are providing for your children financially and emotionally (in your best capacity), you are doing fine. We are not perfect and will “mess up” at times. You just teach your children that even parents make mistakes and give them love.
  3. Be open to learning new things or ways of parenting. It is important to be open to learning because even when we think we have things together…something falls apart. There is so much stress in modern day life that we can get caught up in it and maybe not do our best. Podcasts, YouTube videos, parenting classes and even going to parenting groups can be real eye openers. You may learn better ways of doing things but also things you definitely don’t want to do as well. 
  4. Always remember that your children are only young once. You may have a demanding job, be a single parent, have family members that need extra care, etc., but it is so important to give your children your time. Make sure that whenever you are able to spend quality time with your kids that you do so because this solidifies your connection and relationship with them. It is important for your children to grow up knowing that you made them a priority and showed them that you thought they were (are) important.
  5. Teenagers need attention too! Lots of parents think or believe that when their children grow old enough that they don’t need as much supervision or attention which couldn’t be further from the truth. Teens need love, guidance and attention from their parents. This is the time in their lives when they are developing their habits, personalities, preferences, and self-esteem. When teens are left to their own devices, they tend to be influenced more by their friends. It is crucial to make sure that you know your teen’s friends and stay involved in their social media usage. Show your teens that you love and respect them so that they will take those things with them into their adulthood.

What topics do you write about? Why do you write about these topics?

So far, I’ve written 3 children’s picture books focusing on learning life lessons. My first book focused on teaching young children what can and cannot go into the potty. Most children’s potty training books focus on helping children feel comfortable using it and encouraging them to continue practicing until they get it right and build confidence. I decided to put a different twist on the potty training and help kids to learn the 3 things that are allowed into the potty and did my best to make it entertaining.

After that, I wanted to make a rhyming book about food and thought this would be a fun type of children’s book. So Food is Fun came to be and it has Gia on each page with lots of different kinds of foods around her with sight words. I decided to make this book a learning tool and not just a cute picture book.

Next I thought it would be fun to introduce some new characters and so I felt like focusing on friendship was a good way to do that. My book, Are We Friends dives into what it takes to be a good friend for a young child and how can they learn how to do this. Gia and her new “friends” learn how to share things, to take turns, and to be kind & show compassion. Each step of the process in the book focuses on a different aspect of friendship in  a way that young children can understand.

Benefits to teaching life lessons:

  1. New skills
  2. New ideas
  3. Helpful tips
  4. Increase strengths
  5. Improve self-confidence


Please share a little about your journey as an author/creator/educator etc. What tips would you give to someone starting in this field?

My journey as an author/creator/educator really just came about by chance and without much processing, planning, or research.I just basically got the idea in my head that I wanted to create a children’s book with my own personal character and charged forward with it.  I am a bit embarrassed to admit that part but here we are. It would be more beneficial to do research on the topics that you would like to write about and if there’s a market for those topics. Another thing that would be good is to check out your competition to find out how well the books in your preferred topic/genre/niche sell and how successful you may be writing those types of books. The children’s picture book is extremely over saturated and there are so many fantastic books that don’t get much attention because, as self-published authors, we have to do all of the work (including marketing) ourselves.

Next, a new author would want to look into the three options for publishing (self-publishing, hybrid, and traditional) and determine the pros & cons of each. Traditional publishing is what most people think of when coming up with the idea to publish a book but it is not the only one. Traditional publishing may get you more attention but you still have to do most of the marketing yourself depending on the publishing house and what they offer. Also, with traditional publishing you don’t have the ability to choose your illustrator or printing house. Hybrid, from what I undersand, provides more flexibility with different things. Self-Publishing is you (and only YOU) doing all of the work.However, you can choose your book style, cover style, printing house, illustrator, and everything else. So it is just a matter of choosing the right method for you.

I have not given up on publishing great books even though my books are not flying off the shelves (ha ha). I know that with the right connections, decisions, and content that I may see more success in the future. This is a great thing to do because you are providing important messages and information to children. Books are so important for kids to learn from because the lessons can be so profound. In my experience, picture books provide lessons about feelings, self-confidence, loss/grief, friendship, finding your passion, helping others, helping the environment, learning about animals, space discovery, history, and so much more. 

So it is important to take a chance if you think you have a good (or even great) idea to share with the world. Even though there are so many books out there right now, there is always room for more. Share your ideas and don’t be afraid to make mistakes along the way. Join groups with other authors and content creators so that you can get advice and helpful tips that can help you on your journey. 

And be aware of scammers on the internet & social media because there are too many individuals/agencies/companies that make claims to help you reach more people or get more followers. Many of them are not worth your time. It is best to set up your own website, start an email list (something I’m still working on doing), and get out there in the community to share the benefits of your creations. Good luck!!

To learn more about her books, head over to her author central page or Instagram.

 

 

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How I Became a Fast Reader

Hi, my name is Kelsey Clark, and I am the author of the Animal Tour Guide book series. I am a full-time author because I want to create stories and books that will excite children to want to read and want to travel around the world. I want to create that book, which when a parent asks their kids ‘what do you want to read?’, then they instantly say one of our books in our series. I absolutely love when I get text messages, emails, reviews, or posts from parents telling me just how much their child loves the books and how they have read it 5 times in the last week and are acting out scenes from the books. I write these stories about different parts of the world because I want children to dream about exploring these places and I want the children that live there to be excited that they live in such an amazing place with so much to offer! I love being able to use my travel experiences and mix it with my imagination.

Please share a little bit about your cultural journey. 

I was born and raised in Orlando, FL, which is known for bringing in a lot of people from all around the world. At my high school, I participated in international programs and had the opportunity to travel to other countries. Also, I got the opportunity through the program to talk with children that were my age to discuss each other’s cultures and viewpoints. I have even created lifelong friends through some of these experiences! I also worked at City Walk at Universal Studios and a lot of summers we would get international students that would come and work abroad for a couple months.

It was great to get to know them and make more friends from around the world. As I got older though, I found myself moving to Washington D.C. where I worked for a few years. I would always make it a point to go every year to the Embassy Open House events in May and any other international events in the summer, such as the Folklife Festivals. Overall, it was great living in DC because it was such an international hub. Then my husband and I got the opportunity to move to Italy, where we stayed for a few years!

The first year and half we found ourselves traveling all over Europe. However, COVID hit during our second half of our time there and we found ourselves grounded for a lot of our next 2 years, but we took this as an opportunity to get to know Italy. I always say that living in a country is so different than vacationing. We really got to understand a lot and found an appreciation for a lot of what Italy has to offer. I think, if given the opportunity, more people should live in another country, so that we might better understand each other.

My husband and I for the longest time wanted to live in Europe and we were able to make that dream come true! We are now currently living back in Florida to be closer to family! Now, I am taking everything I have learned in my travels and making books come to life through my experiences, with the help of my amazing and talented friend and illustrator. 

How did you come to do the work you do? 

Growing up, I always had a big imagination, so I love that I get to use that when writing my books. With a topic like travel, there is just so much to explore and so many amazing places in the world to write about and highlight. For this reason, I am so excited to be an author and that I get the chance to make my dream come true. I always wanted to be a children’s book author, but I didn’t have the inspiration for my book series until I traveled. While on one trip, I met a cute cat that walked alongside us, meowing and stopping at all of the scenic lookouts. I thought ‘what a cute animal tour guide’! I knew this would be a great way to introduce children to the world as well, through the eyes of a cute animal friend. Each book introduces a new location and a new animal tour guide friend. We also feature one character from a previous book in each new story, to showcase that these are real places and that we can all learn from one another. 

Please share a life-changing moment and how you overcame the struggle. 

Growing up, I started out as not the best or quickest reader. I found myself falling behind and when my teacher approached my mom about it, my mom was shocked because we always read books together. However, the teacher asked her, ‘do you always read the same books?’

My mom answered yes, and the teacher told her that I was memorizing the story and that was how I was reading it. My parents spent a lot of time trying to help me. I found myself crying to my mom because I felt like I was not good enough and that I just wasn’t as smart as the other kids. My parents were always there to reassure me that I could do it. I kept trying to read and would watch other students’ techniques to try and do the same thing to get better. I was still a lot slower though with reading. Then Harry Potter came out. My mom and I first started reading it together, sharing the books back and forth.

Then I started to get faster because I wanted to know what happened in the book! My mom and I made it a competition and if one of us put down the book, then the other would get it and start reading where they left off and the other had to wait for the book again. This competition and the story really helped me. After that, I started reading a lot more and found myself writing poetry, writing play scripts with my friends, and writing stories.

This made me want to eventually write my own books one day. However, I kept that close to my heart for a lot of years because I knew I still had a lot to learn in school and again I just didn’t have the inspiration for my stories yet. I wanted to write stories for children because I struggled with reading growing up and, just as Harry Potter was the book series that helped me want to read more, I am hoping that my books will be the same catalyst for other children starting out to read! 

What topics do you write about? Why do you write about these topics? 

In terms of writing, this is a long process within itself and everything I write is constantly looked over multiple times. I start out by thinking of three things: what is my character (or animal tour guide) going to be, what location do I want to feature, and what is the story going to be. Once I understand that, then I make a layout of all the places I want to highlight in my location, whether it is an island, town, or an entire country.

I use pictures and stories which I’ve gathered from my own travels and then I do research on the animals and locations which make that location unique, and I compile them in a document. Then I start writing. Once I am done with the story, then I stop and think about which words from my text I could convert to the language of that country or area. I try to pick words that I feel would be helpful for children to learn before they go to visit that country. For example, ‘thank you’ or ‘hi’ are always important words to learn. Then I research and listen multiple times on how to say the word in that language and I write the phonetics for what I think I hear.

For each book, I send my recordings and phonetics to a local from that area or someone that speaks that language. I ask them to make any edits they feel need to be made and they will correct me if they feel like I need to improve on the word. We often go back and forth many times to get the pronunciation just right! I take this information seriously because I know that when I go into schools to read my book, then I want to be as authentic as I can be when teaching the children to pronounce these words. I want them to feel comfortable saying the words, so they can use them when they travel to these countries.

Then I give what usually turns out to be over 100 pages of text and images to my illustrator to look over and draw inspiration from. We talk about the feel and look of each book and try and make it feel and have the same tones and colors as the area we are portraying. We are very deliberate with our choices for the colors in each book, and each book features a different color palette. Every area is beautiful and has its own personality, which we try and convey as best as we can.

Please share a little about your journey as an author etc. What tips would you give to someone starting in this field?

Before the first book was published and before I started posting on social media, I made a business plan for myself. I did this to help me focus and keep me cognizant of where I started and where I want to go. I also wanted to always make sure that I stay on topic of why I am doing this to begin with. I wrote out my mission statement and my vision for the series. This helped me look into what I wanted to get across on social media and with my marketing strategy.

I decided to self-publish for a couple reasons: I wanted to have creative control, and I wanted to be able to use my own talented friend and illustrator. I did a lot of personal research, video research, online research, and discussion research trying to figure out how to best go about putting this series together. When I first shared my idea for a children’s book series with one of my childhood friends, and told her about wanting to open up the world through stories and to get children excited to travel, she instantly was onboard and wanted to illustrate it! She also loves to travel and this helped us both, and we have ended up putting a lot of ourselves into each story and page of the book.

My tip for other authors is to understand starting out that there is no one-size-fits-all approach for every author.

Each author is going through their own journey and experience. What could work for one author might not work for you. Of course, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t listen to other authors and ask for feedback, but just understand that this is a slow process and there will be a lot you will learn each day. I am still learning and as my mom says “we all are always lifelong learners”. Be sure to have a good family, friend, and author support group. There will be times when you might need to lean on them when things aren’t going your way or when it is not going as quickly as you might want it to be going. This will take time and a lot of patience.

Just be aware that a lot of the authors in the community you make have been in your boat. Also, I would say to be sure to celebrate every accomplishment. Make sure, before starting out, that you make a list of realistic goals you want to accomplish for the year and go out and accomplish them. It can be as simple as writing, ‘I want to go and do an author visit at 5 locations’ or ‘I want to get 500-1000 followers this year.’ These milestones you pass can also be a good motivator.

Lastly, be sure from start to finish that you always believe in your product and understand why you are an author. This will resonate with others and they will be more inclined to want to share your journey with you. 

Check out her books on Amazon 

More tips for parents raisings kids with confidence here. 

 

 

 

 

 

RWC CATALOG AND FEW BOOKS WE HAVE HELPED PUBLISH

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Teen Entrepreneurship: Building Your Business from the Ground Up

The rise of teen entrepreneurship reflects a growing trend of young individuals eager to establish their own ventures. With the right guidance and tools, these aspiring young entrepreneurs can turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses. It’s crucial to provide them with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate the challenges of starting and running a business. In this article from Raising World Children, we’ll delve into essential strategies and tips for teens looking to embark on their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Discovering Market Opportunities

For teens starting a business, the first step is to identify unmet needs in the market. This involves observing trends, understanding customer pain points, and coming up with innovative solutions. By focusing on a specific market need, your business can offer something unique and valuable, setting it apart from competitors. This strategy not only creates a niche for your business but also increases the likelihood of its success.

Get the Necessary Education

To give your business idea the wings it needs to soar, taking relevant classes can be essential. For example, if your goal is to design the next app sensation, earning a computer science degree online could provide the skills and knowledge you need. By investing in your education, you’re not just learning; you’re laying the groundwork for future success. If you’re serious about making your idea a reality, this resource could help.

Utilizing Cost-Effective Tools and Resources

As a young entrepreneur, it’s important to leverage cost-effective resources and tools. Numerous online platforms provide free or affordable services that can help in launching and managing your business. These resources include website builders, graphic design tools, and digital marketing platforms. By using these tools, you can minimize expenses while maximizing the efficiency and reach of your business.

Seeking Guidance through Mentorship

Mentorship is invaluable for gaining business knowledge and skills. Explore mentorship programs and networks specifically designed for young entrepreneurs. These programs connect you with experienced business professionals who can provide advice, guidance, and support. A mentor can help you avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions, accelerating your business’s growth.

Exploring Funding Options

Securing adequate funding is critical for the sustainability of your business. Look into various funding options such as grants, contests, and crowdfunding campaigns that are accessible to young entrepreneurs. These financial sources can provide the necessary capital to start and grow your business. Understand each option’s requirements and benefits to choose the best fit for your venture.

Teen Entrepreneurship: Building Your Business from the Ground Up

Crafting a Budget Plan

Effective budget management is crucial for the financial health of your business. Develop a budget plan that aligns with your business goals and available resources. This plan should include projected income, expenses, and strategies for cost management. A well-thought-out budget keeps your business financially stable and sets a clear direction for growth.

Creating a Marketing Guide

Creating a marketing plan for your solopreneur business begins with identifying your target audience and understanding their needs and preferences. Conduct market research to determine the best channels to reach your audience, such as social media, email marketing, or local events. Develop a clear and compelling value proposition that highlights the unique benefits of your products or services. Regularly review and adjust your marketing strategies based on performance metrics and feedback to ensure continuous growth and relevance.

Teen entrepreneurship is an exciting and rewarding way to build business skills. By identifying market opportunities, utilizing free or low-cost resources, seeking mentorship, securing funding, creating a budget plan, and establishing an online presence, you can lay a strong foundation for your business. Remember, the journey of building a business is a learning experience filled with both challenges and opportunities. Embrace these strategies, stay determined, and leverage the resources at your disposal to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

 

For children’s books containing diverse experiences and stories, visit Raising World Children today!

Jason Kenner is just a dad who loves sports and adores his kids, who’s trying to be a good parent. The thing he realized as he started researching challenges he was facing with his own children, is there are a lot of similarities between sports and parenting. He also goes out of his way to teach them how to be a positive impact on the environment. So with On-Par Parent, he’ll share his best advice about both, but he won’t pretend to be a pro in either. And he promises to go easy on the sports puns!

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Book Review – Vijay Visits a Farm

In the delightful story of Vijay’s First Trip to the Farm, readers are taken on a journey through the eyes of a young boy named Vijay, who embarks on an adventure that is as educational as it is heartwarming. This tale, filled with charm and life lessons, captures the essence of childhood wonder and the simple joys born of new experiences.

Vijay, a curious and enthusiastic boy, steps onto the farm with wide eyes and an open heart. The farm, a place bustling with life, is a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life he knows. Here, Vijay meets Joy, a gentle and wise cow, and Lily, who adds a touch of playfulness to the narrative. These characters aren’t just animals or sidekicks; they are guides who help Vijay discover the beauty of farm life and the profound connections that can be made with animals.

Book Review – 

The story beautifully illustrates how Vijay, initially uncomfortable and unwilling, gradually becomes comfortable in this new environment. Joy, the cow, symbolizes the calm and peace that can be found in nature, while Lily embodies the excitement and curiosity that comes with exploring something new. Through his interactions with Joy and Lily, Vijay learns that life on the farm is not just about hard work; it’s also about forming bonds and finding happiness in unexpected places.

As a parent, I want my child to grow up with a deep sense of curiosity and an open heart, eager to explore the world around them. I hope they learn to find joy in simple moments, like connecting with animals or discovering new experiences, just like Vijay did on his first trip to the farm. Most importantly, I want them to understand that true happiness comes from forming meaningful connections and embracing the beauty of life in all its forms.

This story emphasizes the importance of connecting with the world around us. Vijay’s journey reminds us that joy often comes from stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing new experiences. The farm becomes a metaphor for life itself—a place where every day brings the possibility of learning something new and making meaningful connections.

The narrative is crafted to be engaging for children and insightful for adults. It serves as a gentle nudge to slow down, appreciate the simple things in life, and remember that joy can be found in the most unlikely of places—like a first trip to a farm.

Vijay’s First Trip to the Farm is a gem of a story that beautifully captures childhood innocence and the wonder of discovering new experiences. The characters are endearing, and the lessons about connection, joy, and the beauty of nature are timeless. This book is a must-read for parents and children alike, offering a heartwarming narrative and valuable life lessons. It’s a story that will stay with readers long after the last page is turned, reminding us of life’s simple joys.

Overall, Vijay’s First Trip to the Farm is a story that will resonate with readers of all ages. It’s a celebration of life, connection, and the happiness that comes from opening our hearts to new experiences. Whether you’re reading it to your child or enjoying it alone, this tale will leave you with a smile and perhaps a new appreciation for the world around you.

About the Author

 

A TEDx speaker, Preethi is passionate about animal welfare and nature. She authored her first book, “The Sacred Bond: Personal Experiences of Cows Touching Human Lives,” which explores the unique connections between cows and people. Inspired by personal experiences, Preethi embarked on a journey to share heartwarming stories of how animals can touch our lives profoundly. Through her writings, she aims to inspire families to build social-emotional connections with animals and in the process, improve human-animal coexistence. Beyond writing, Preethi is an advocate and a speaker on the intersection of personal well-being with animal welfare and environmental conservation. Learn more about the mission of Befriend Cows and how you can help at befriendcows.org and @BefriendCows

Your can grab the book by clicking here.

More book reviews can be found here. 

 

 

 

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5 Tips for Parents of New Teen Drivers

The moment your teen sits behind the wheel for the first time is a significant milestone for them and you as parents. It marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with freedom, responsibility, and, understandably, a bit of anxiety. Your role in guiding them towards becoming safe, responsible drivers cannot be overstated. Here are five essential tips to help you along this pivotal journey, including an important note on auto insurance. Here are tips for parents of new teen drivers.

Setting Clear Expectations and Rules for Safe Driving

Start with a frank discussion about your expectations and the rules of the road. Establish clear boundaries regarding speed limits, the number of passengers, and driving hours. Discussing the legal and safety implications of driving under the influence is also crucial. Setting these ground rules early can help instill a sense of responsibility and the seriousness of driving.

Consistent Monitoring and the Importance of Leading by Example

Your teen will learn a lot by observing your driving habits. Always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic laws, and avoid using your phone while driving. Additionally, consider using apps that monitor driving behavior to provide constructive feedback and encourage safe driving practices.

Teaching Defensive Driving Skills and Handling Unexpected Situations

Defensive driving courses offer invaluable skills that go beyond primary driving education. These courses teach young drivers to anticipate and react to potential hazards, manage adverse weather conditions, and understand the dynamics of car control. Encouraging your teen to take a defensive driving course can significantly enhance their safety on the road.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving and How to Avoid It

In today’s connected world, the temptation to check notifications or answer calls while driving is high. Discuss the dangers of distracted driving with your teen, emphasizing that no message or call is worth risking their safety. Encourage them to set their phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving to eliminate distractions.

Preparing for the Unexpected: Creating an Emergency Plan

Discuss and prepare for how to handle potential emergencies, such as tire blowouts, engine troubles, or minor accidents. Ensure your teen knows how to change a tire, check for basic car malfunctions, and whom to call in an emergency. This preparation can make all the difference in a stressful situation.

The Role of Auto Insurance: Ensuring Proper Coverage for New Drivers

Navigating auto insurance for a new teen driver can be daunting, but it is essential for their protection and yours. Look for policies offering comprehensive coverage that suits new drivers, including collision and liability coverage. Many insurance companies provide discounts for good grades or completing a defensive driving course, so be sure to inquire about available options. Remember, choosing the right auto insurance is not just about compliance; it’s about ensuring peace of mind. For more information about insurance coverage, contact an insurance provider like Advantage Insurance Agency.

Empowering Parents with the Knowledge and Tools for Safer Roads

By setting clear expectations, leading by example, and equipping your teen with the right skills and knowledge, you can significantly contribute to their safety and responsibility on the road. Understanding the importance of auto insurance prepares you for any situation that might arise. Your guidance and support are crucial during this exciting, formative period in your teen’s life, empowering them to become conscientious, responsible drivers.

 

Want to have your kids participate in next years Write to Publish 2025 program? Email raisingworldchildren@gmail.com for details.
GET FREE PRINTABLES HERE.

 

 

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Understanding Cultural Significance of Different Hairstyles

Hair is an elemental part of one’s identity, and most of us spend a lot of time grooming our hair to look and feel better. But hair is so much more than just a physical attribute. Have you ever taken the time to understand the cultural significance of different hairstyles?

Keep Reading to Learn More …

Hair has been an expression of cultural identity and a significant symbol of religious, ethnic, or national identity. Hairstyles indicate one’s age, affiliations, ethnicity, religion, and social status, and many ethnic and cultural groups use hair to define and even reclaim their identities.

Throughout history, various cultures’ hair and hairstyles have had significance far beyond esthetic beauty and protection from the weather. Some styles that originated in ancient cultures are still evident in contemporary society. 

 

Cornrows, for example, have existed for thousands of years and remain timeless. Also known as canerows in the Caribbean, cornrows are hairstyles styled in straight lines or intricate geometric or curved patterns. They existed in 3,000 BC within various cultures of West Africa and the Horn of Africa. In recent history, cornrows remain a symbol of resistance against slavery and bondage. Cornrows were even a method of sending messages and maps to escape from the homes of slave owners. 

Dreadlocks are another ancient hairstyle with rope-like strands created by locking or braiding the hair. Dreadlocks were part of several ancient cultures such as Greece, Egypt, and India, with some styles dating back to 1500 BC and going back as far as the Minoans of Crete, 3,600 years ago. Some mummified Egyptians had dreadlocks, as did Aztec warriors. Dreaded hair is part of the Rastafarian belief system that dreads happen to hair when freed from artificial processes. According to the Rastafarian interpretation of the Bible, dreadlocks also symbolically connect them to the strength of Samson, whose hair was the source of his power.

 

Mohawks, also known as the Mohican, are a hairstyle associated with Native American warriors. The original mohawk consisted of a square patch of hair on the back of the crown of the head, created by plucking hair rather than shaving it. 

The queue is a Chinese hairstyle in which the front portion of the head is shaved every ten days while the rest of the hair is grown out and braided in the back. This hairstyle lasted under Qing rule from 1644 until 1912. All Han Chinese men were ordered to wear the queue as a sign of submission to the ruling Manchurians.

The Japanese women had many traditional hairstyles of which Nihongami is the best known, with two side wings and a long loop of hair below drawn into a topknot. This style was prevalent from 1603 to 1868. The hairstyles often indicated age, social status, and occupation. For example, the shimada was worn by girls in their late teens, the sakkō by newly married women, and the Takashimaya by brides. Japanese men of the same period wore chonmage, the traditional samurai top knot, still worn by Sumo warriors today.

Cultural significance of different hairstyles

Long hair is an indication of spirituality in many cultures around the world, and some people never cut their hair for sacred reasons. These include certain indigenous North American groups, some of whom believe that to cut one’s hair is to cut off the flow of thought or connection to a higher power. Among other native North Americans, long hair is a symbol of resistance. The Amish believe that the Bible prohibits men and women from shaving to differentiate them from their secular neighbors. Devout Sikhs have a similar tenant: neither men nor women are to cut their hair, and women aren’t to shave or even trim their brows. The practice is called Kesh. Young male children wear their heads in a bun until they are old enough to wear a turban. Girls and women wear braids and buns.

Long hair is often plaited — both on people’s heads and beards. Ornate braids could denote wealth, and flowers or jewels woven in. In warmer climates, braids keep hair off one’s face and reduce distractions at school or work. Among indigenous North American tribes, a three-strand braid symbolizes strength or Oneness of Thought. Among some rural Hindu women, a braid is a sign of virginity. During China’s Manchu Dynasty, rice farmers wore braids. Black women’s braids are integral to their culture and symbolize the strength of their roots. 

Head shaving is a grooming habit also found worldwide, from monks in Nepal, China, and Tibet to those who are balding and those who choose to simplify daily grooming. Head shaving often denotes beauty and purification and is sometimes part of anonymity rituals. The Masaai women of Tanzania and Kenya shave their head hair and adorn themselves with jewelry instead. Hindu male and female children go through a head-shaving ritual called chudakarana for purification, and adults sacrifice hair at temples for blessings. Many monks of various religions shave their heads. Korean Buddhist monks and nuns shave their heads every 15 days. In another purification rite among the Hasidic Jewish Satmar sect, married women shave their heads before their monthly ritual bath. It’s a worldwide, time-honored tradition for male military recruits to get their heads shaved; it’s likely to teach newbies to be egoless, anonymous, and obedient.

Ultimately, hair is an individual choice. It is elemental and unique to the individual, and in many ways, it tells a story of origin, age, wealth, and religion. 

 

Published author Pria Dee thinks it’s important for children to learn the wonderful differences in other cultures yet also how hard life can be. In her new children’s picture book Little Moe Can’t Fly, she depicts the struggles of a little gosling who is a late bloomer. Pria has an active imagination often weaves her stories around ideas that show empathy and involve relatable characters. She hopes her young readers come away from her books with a glimpse of another’s life and learn the similarities and differences in their own lives. Priya also appreciates spending time in nature, often with her dog and draws inspiration from it. Balu Saves the Day is her second children’s book, along with a book for adults.

BROWSE AND BUY HER BOOKS HERE 

Connect with Pria Dee here –

Web Site

www.priadee.com

https://www.instagram.com/priadeeauthor/

 

Understanding cultural significance of different cultures

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Amplify Creativity in Children with Learning Disabilities

Art is a powerful conduit for expression and connection, transcending the barriers that words often cannot. For children with learning disabilities, it serves not only as an outlet for their creativity but as a vital tool for communication, understanding, and personal growth. This guide, presented by Raising World Children, aims to illuminate the path for nurturing the artistic talents of these young minds, ensuring they thrive in an environment that values and celebrates their unique perspectives.

Art as a Therapeutic Journey

Art introduces a realm of self-expression and skill development, particularly beneficial for children with learning disabilities. It supports diverse learning styles, offering a non-judgmental space for children to articulate their feelings, ideas, and experiences. Emphasizing art’s multifaceted nature encourages exploration and discovery, enabling children to navigate their emotions and the world around them with confidence.

Preserving Artistic Milestones

Preserving your child’s creative milestones is crucial for fostering their sense of accomplishment. By using online tools such as a PDF converter, you can seamlessly change your files to make them available anytime you want to look at them. This will allow you to store the originals away to prevent damage from too much handling. Not only that, but PDF formats are secure, so you never have to worry about losing these important treasures.

Expanding Horizons through Art Therapy

Art therapy, alongside adaptive arts programs, offers tailored experiences that cater to the unique needs of children with learning disabilities. From sensory-friendly theater productions to tactile art projects and inclusive dance workshops, these initiatives provide a supportive platform for exploration. Such experiences are instrumental in broadening children’s understanding of art and its potential for expression, enabling them to find joy and success in their creative endeavors.

Fostering Individual Creativity

Recognizing and nurturing each child’s distinct artistic interests is essential. Engaging in conversations about their preferences allows parents and educators to tailor support, whether it’s through painting, music, drama, or another form of art. This individualized approach ensures that children feel seen and valued for their unique talents, encouraging a deeper, more meaningful engagement with the arts.

Sensory Engagement in Learning

Incorporating multisensory elements into artistic activities enriches the learning experience for children with learning disabilities. By engaging sight, sound, touch, and movement, these activities enhance comprehension and enjoyment, making art an even more effective tool for exploration and expression. Such an approach acknowledges and leverages the diverse ways these children perceive and interact with the world around them.

Inspiring a Teaching Passion

Parents who delight in the arts can consider sharing this passion through teaching. While it’s not an easy job, it can be incredibly rewarding whether you choose to work at a school or tutor kids one-on-one. With the latter option, exploring the possibility of establishing a teaching venture, such as an LLC, can formalize this interest, allowing you to spread your enthusiasm for the arts. This not only benefits your own children but also reaches others, fostering a wider appreciation for artistic expression.

Creating Art-Friendly Spaces

Adapting the home environment to support artistic activities can significantly impact a child’s creative journey. By dedicating space for art, parents can provide a sanctuary that nurtures their child’s talent and potentially enhances the home’s value. Such spaces are essential for allowing creativity to flourish, free from the constraints of unsuitable environments. If you decide to go big and make changes to your home–such as adding built-in bookshelves–be sure to hold onto receipts and take before-and-after photos of the additions. These can help you prove added value should you decide to move.

Cultivating a Supportive Community

Building a network of support around children with learning disabilities is vital. Collaborating with educators, therapists, and fellow parents creates a foundation of resources, experiences, and encouragement. This community becomes a cornerstone for growth, offering a nurturing backdrop for children to explore, create, and thrive artistically while giving you support as well.

 

Guiding children with learning disabilities on their artistic journey is a rewarding process filled with discovery, joy, and occasional challenges. By embracing strategies that recognize and nurture their unique talents, we can unlock their full creative potential. This journey not only empowers these young minds to express themselves but also enriches our world with their unique artistic perspectives. Together, let’s foster an environment where every child’s artistic dreams are not only recognized but celebrated and supported every step of the way.

Raising World Children offers guidance and resources for families who want to broaden their horizons with diverse stories. Take a look around the site today to learn more!

 

 

How To Amplify Creativity in Children with Learning Disabilities

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Book Review – We are all Different, We are all Amazing

Accepting yourself and the world can be a struggle, for kids and even adults. Every single day people worry about their skin color, height and wonder if they are worthy enough to have a standing in the world. We are all Different, We are all Amazing is a great little book to help kids see the world as it is.

With the world the state it is in, there is such an immediate need to empower kids early to understand that they, and everyone around them has an equal right to be.

There are many books on diversity but there are few that can visually cover the diaspora of across the world and among people. The book is a great introduction for kids everywhere to see how different the world is.

The author Dilraz Kunnummal has done a great job of building her characters to reflect and give kids the worlds with which they can create affirmations every day.

Each page is a standalone vista of the beauty of the world. Ideal for kids aged 3 through 8, this book is great for repetition and leading much needed conversations with children early. Conversations about body positivity, racism, colorism etc can be led in age-appropriate ways with kids. The questions in the end help deeply with this.

A special note of the vivid illustrations that capture the joy within this world that we live in.

 

GRAB THE BOOK VIA LINK HERE 

Benefits of the Book –

It discusses multiple different aspects of life, and celebrates all of it. Whether it is about different languages, or ways to communicate, or beliefs or eating habits, or different types of families, the book highlights so many differences while reiterating that despite it all, we are all also the same! And we are all AMAZING!

Book Blurb – 

In our wonderfully diverse world, our societies resemble a vibrant patchwork, woven together by individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and traditions. Come along with Ninja and Bee as they embark on a journey to discover the rich tapestry of their community, celebrating the unique differences and remarkable similarities that make it so wonderful. Let’s cherish diversity and the things that bring us together.

About Dilraz Kunnummal

Dilraz Kunnummal is the author of the much-loved children’s book, ‘See You Soon’ and the curator of the anthology on breastfeeding “Drops of Nurture”. The role she’s proudest of is being mama to her cheeky little boy, and a girl and her journey as a parent is where she draw inspiration from for most of her writing.

She’s a trained journalist with experience across media platforms including print, television and radio. She has covered the Arab Spring for a daily newspaper and has interviewed multiple Bollywood celebrities during her radio days.

Having been an expatriate throughout her life, she aims to tell stories which are multicultural and can connect to a global audience. Over the last decade, she has contributed to a number of successful anthology books including ‘My Beautiful Bahrain’, published by Robin Baratt and ‘Raising the Global Mindset’ curated by Aditi Wardhan Singh, of Raising World Children.

GET THE BOOKS 

Find more books to add to your to be read pile here.

Actionable ways to have age-appropriate conversations around diversity with kids here.

 

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Book Review – Coco, the Puerto Rican Parrot

Learn more about the nature in our world while being entertained through a fun story about parrots. This book by Frances, is great book for kids is a wonderful resource for bilingual teachers of Spanish.

I also found it a great read for those kids transitioning from picture books to chapter books. I will surely be using it in my teaching. It is so important for kids to be able to see how bilinguals can be a wonderful trait. This book has so much to offer children around the world.

A glimpse into Puerto Rico, an understanding of natures’ creatures, impact on environment and beauty of bilinguism. The vivid illustrations help bring the story alive! My daughter really favorite part is how the parrots fly in the sky…

Book Description

In the Iguaca Aviary, a captive parrot is seeking to be released into the tropical rainforest of Yunque. He’s happy, but will the wild flock accept him once he is free?

About the Author

Frances Díaz Evans is a Latina educator, author, wife and mom to a teenager. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Universidad del Este in Puerto Rico and a Master of Education in Spanish from the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina. She is the founder and writer of the multicultural and bilingual parenting site, Discovering the World Through My Son’s Eyes. She began to write when her son was 4 years old about their multicultural/ bilingual family living, learning, and discovering the world through their son’s eyes. Currently, her website has evolved into a resource for multicultural and bilingual parenting.

Like-minded families and educators can find educational information about Puerto Rico, Hispanic and Latino culture, multicultural and bilingual parenting, and book recommendations, among other topics. Through her work as a multicultural and language advocate, she fosters and elevates the Latino culture and Spanish language both online and in her local community. Now as a published author she hopes to continue instilling a love for Puerto Rico and the importance of bilingualism to children around the world.

Coco the Puerto Rican Parrot is her first children’s book. Find more about her at francesdiazevans.com

This book has been reviewed as part of the Read Your World 2024 Event.

Diverse books are books that celebrate different people. They have different backgrounds, cultures, identities, and opinions. One reason why reading diverse books is good for you is that they can help you feel what other people feel. By reading diverse books, you can learn about the world,  what people go through, what they love, and what they dream of. You can also find out that you have a lot in common with them, even if they look or act different from you. This can help you respect and appreciate the diversity of people and their stories.

Another reason why reading diverse books is good for you is that they can help you feel good about yourself. Self-esteem is how much you believe in yourself and your abilities. It is important for doing well in school, being happy, and taking care of yourself. By reading diverse books, you can see yourself  and know that you matter and belong.

READ YOUR WORLD EVENT is where YOU get to find diverse books from around the world in ONE place. Register here now. 

You can find more details about the event host and other co-hosts here. 

I hope you will read more diverse books, and share them with your friends and family. By doing so, you can help make the world a better and more colorful place.

Find new books to read via the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

 

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Read Your World 2024 – Diverse Books for Every Child

Reading books is amazing. It opens doors, windows and is a peak into worlds and lives you will never live yourself. You can learn new things, imagine cool stuff, and have fun. But not all books are the same.  Some books only show only one way of seeing the world and the people in it. That’s one dimensional and can lead to tunnel vision for kids growing up in a mono cultural world. Read Your World is a diverse book event that tackles this problem.

 Diverse books are books that celebrate different people. They have different backgrounds, cultures, identities, and opinions. In this essay, I will tell you why reading diverse books is good for you and share a story from when I was a kid.

One reason why reading diverse books is good for you is that they can help you feel what other people feel. This is called empathy. Empathy is a superpower that helps you get along with others and avoid fights. By reading diverse books, you can learn about how other people live, what they go through, what they love, and what they dream of. You can also find out that you have a lot in common with them, even if they look or act different from you. This can help you respect and appreciate the diversity of people and their stories.

Another reason why reading diverse books is good for you is that they can help you feel good about yourself. Self-esteem is how much you believe in yourself and your abilities. It is important for doing well in school, being happy, and taking care of yourself. By reading diverse books, you can see yourself in the books and the characters and feel that you matter and belong. You can also find people who inspire you and show you what you can do. This can help you overcome bad stereotypes and judgments and celebrate your uniqueness and potential.

The seed of diverse books was sown in me every time I read an Amar Chitra Katha or Chandamama or saw stories told by various language speaking people. I felt a connection with the characters . I realized that I was not alone, and that I could be a hero too. I also became more curious and open-minded about other cultures and views, and I started to read more diverse books from different kinds of writers and stories. This helped me grow as a person and as a reader, and I became more confident and prouder of who I was.

I do what I do because I want the world to see stories from MY lens now .I share uniquely told books, help create them and promote other peers doing the same.

To that end, today I bring to you the Read Your World event of the year. An event where YOU get to find diverse books from around the world in ONE place. Register here now. 

 

You can find more details about the event host and other co-hosts here. 

I hope you will read more diverse books, and share them with your friends and family. By doing so, you can help make the world a better and more colorful place.

 

For more info, you can email contact@raisingworldchildren.com