Teaching her to practice gratitude for the many blessings in her life is at the top of my list. Intentionally reflecting on the things we have to be grateful for offers endless benefits for children and adults alike, a value that I hope she will carry with her for the rest of her life.
The journey to gratitude in parenting requires a hearty dose of patience and understanding. It is perfectly normal for kids to ask for new toys and gifts, especially during the holidays or while shopping at a store with colorful and tempting new gadgets. It’s also key to realize that children are bombarded with hundreds of advertisements each day and they are constantly reminded at school of all the cool toys and new gadgets their friends have that they are missing out on. There are times when my daughter will beg for new toys when we are out shopping, while I’ve come to accept that this is normal behavior for all children, it has taught me to implement some fun activities to help her understand the path of gratitude.
Practicing gratitude together has been beneficial for each of us individually and as a team.
Here are some fun and effective gratitude habits to practice with your little ones:
1. Create An Allowance Plan With Chores
Creating an allowance plan involving simple chores around the house to earn money to buy the toys they want is a great way to teach children the value of their possessions. Plus, teaching them how to manage their hard-earned cash introduces basic budgeting skills at a young age which is an invaluable life skill not taught in schools. When children have to “work” for the extra things they want (toys, fun things, candy, gadgets, etc) it gives them a sense of hard-earned accomplishment which feels empowering and helps them create a mental connection between the value of the things they own and the effort that went into making it happen.
2. Make a Wishlist to Teach Delayed Gratification
Have kids create a wishlist of things they want instead of buying them immediately when they ask. For example, when they are at a store and ask for a toy they want, instead of buying it for them then and there, have them create a wishlist to add items to for an upcoming holiday or birthday. Encourage them to take time to think about the items they add and to only keep the items on the list if they still want the toy a week or two after they’ve added it. This teaches them delayed gratification and helps them value the things they receive more deeply.
3. Show Appreciation for Gifts and Blessings with Thank You Notes
Have children take the time to write personalized thank you notes after birthday parties and holidays addressed to anyone who gives them a gift. Encourage children to not stress over the spelling or writing, the message of gratitude is the most important thing. This practice teaches them to acknowledge people who do kind things for them and the value it brings into their lives.
4. Make a "most prized possessions” box
Get crafty and have children make a personalized box to hold only their most prized possessions. They can have fun with this activity by decorating the box with stickers or markers and putting their name on the side. The box should not be too big in size, this way they can only fit their most prized possessions inside: a sentimental teddy bear, a doll, their favorite toy trucks, a seashell from a beach vacation, or anything that brings them genuine joy.
Having children focus on their most important possessions through this minimization technique teaches them to value and feel grateful for the things they already have without feeling like they always need more to attain happiness. Additionally, when they ask for a new toy or a gift while you are out shopping, ask them if that toy or gift is so special that they would take out one thing from their box to make room for the new thing. Encourage them to take time to think about this important decision.
5. Practice gratitude journaling
Young or old, gratitude journaling is a practice that has the potential to drastically improve the quality of life by allowing us to take the time to focus on entirely on our blessings. Taking 5 to 10 minutes each day to sit down and write about the things we are most thankful for is a wonderfully effective way to bring life back to a positive perspective, particularly during challenging times. Kids will realize that even on their most difficult, unhappy days, that they will still find things to write about which they are thankful for. This practice helps them develop a true gratitude mindset.
6. Write Gratitude Letters
Writing gratitude letters varies slightly from writing thank you letters because gratitude letters don’t need to be written specifically for the purpose of thanking someone for a gift per say, but can be used as more of a general tool to show gratitude towards someone without reason. Have kids pick up a pencil and paper during downtime on weekends and address a letter to an aunt, cousin, grandparent, friend, or classmate to express gratitude for the role they play in their life. This technique also teaches letter-writing and helps children focus on the values of relationships.
7. Be a Good Role Model: Appreciate the big and small things in life together
As a parent, our behaviors and tendencies have a huge impact on the ways our kids interact with the world and their feelings about themselves. So really, teaching gratitude with our kids starts with ourselves. Be mindful of your self-talk around your little ones, aim to speak in a way that focuses on the good things in life, the things that are going right, and the things to be thankful for.
Take time with children to pause and notice the small joys in everyday life, vocally appreciate beautiful things in nature together, discuss when someone nearby does something kind, give praise to your kid when you see them doing something good.
These small things will reach them deeply and impact them positively for the rest of their lives.
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I'm a combination of Bohemian and Whimsical style which you can definitely see is reflected in our brand.
Click the link below to take this fun quiz from Visual Therapy to see what style you are.
Personal Style Types
Bohemian style is relaxed, lived-in, or funky, and incorporates offbeat accessories and usually lots of denim and suede. It’s a related look with an emphasis on natural fabrics and earth tones. This style evolved from the hippie look of the 1960s and the early 1970s.
Whimsical style is playful and appears to be “thrown together” but is actually a thoughtful combination of colors and patterns. If you’re whimsical, you’re usually young at heart and you’re look is ethereal and romantic.
If you’re Classic, you like simple, clean, and traditional pieces. You opt for a timeless look because the silhouette and colors rarely change. It’s always ladylike, classic, and often tailored.
Chic style is defined by a powerful look and sharp lines that seem to come together in an effortless way. It is often monochromatic and combined with bold accessories.
]]>My daughter loves ballet, but she also really loves yoga. Moving and stretching into all of the poses is a wonderful outlet for her 6-year old energy levels. I’ve also watched how yoga has provided countless benefits beyond the physical for her as well: When she gets stressed or overwhelmed she remembers to take a deep “yoga breath” to manage her feelings from a calm headspace, a technique that she learned from her kid-friendly yoga classes. Yoga has helped develop her focus and concentration skills in school, resulting in deeper engagement and less fidgeting in the classroom. And a few quick, grounding poses help us wind things down in the evenings while we get ready for bed.
The beauty of yoga is that it proves to be a dynamic and beneficial option for just about anyone, and for children in particular. Packed with lifelong benefits ranging from mental, behavioral, emotional, and physical-- yoga combines strengthening and stretching poses with deep breathing, meditation, relaxation, and setting mindful intentions.
Yoga is even being introduced into schools across the US and proves to have an enormously positive impact on students of all ages. Not only are the poses a wonderful way to counter long days of sitting still in classrooms, but the practice also refreshes the ability to concentrate and focus on lessons.
There are countless yoga studios who offer classes for parents and babies or toddlers, or just for children. You may think a toddler would bore easily and quickly, but the classes for young children are engineered to keep them engaged throughout, taking them on an entertaining adventure with interactive games, storytelling, and singing songs. Themes like compassion, gratitude, self-awareness, and strength are intertwined throughout the classes.
Below are some more detailed ways that yoga helps young minds as well as grown-up ones, and to motivate you and your child to begin your yoga practice today!
Builds Confidence
Perhaps some of the most noteworthy attributes of yoga is the emphasis on self-development, self-acceptance, and self-awareness-- rather than on competition and comparison. A yoga practice reminds children to focus on their OWN journey, to go at their own pace, and to become aware of the unique power inside of themselves. These integrated principles help instill confidence and boost self-esteem, traits which children will carry with them over the course of their lifetime. Building a stronger self-image early on helps children conquer their fears, manage challenges, problem-solve, and gain a sense of healthy independence into adulthood.
Some poses you and your little one can practice together on your mat at home to help build confidence: Half Moon Pose, Chair Pose, Warrior II.
Teaches Mindfulness
Yoga teaches children the value of consciously bringing their focus into the present moment. Mindful presence has been found to decrease stress and anxiety levels, and boost emotional wellness. Mindfulness also helps develop problem solving skills, prevents teen depression, and enhances sleep quality.
Before bedtime, you and your child can practice mindfulness using short interactive breathing meditations, such as diaphragmatic breathing (commonly known as alternate-nose breathing) while sitting in lotus position, or cross-legged, with eyes closed. This simple breathing activity helps children calm and stay centered, enhancing mindfulness, focus, and presence.
Improves Concentration
I read somewhere that “yoga is the reduction of fluctuations of the mind,” meaning that we use yoga in order to focus the mind. Between the myriad of touch screen devices, apps, television, and the internet-- children are faced with more distractions than ever these days. Research has proven that constantly being bombarded with so many different distractions contributes to ADHD and other attention disorders from a young age. Yoga is a wonderfully effective way to counteract all of these modern-day distractions, as well as quiet the mind and improve concentration. A recent study found that just 20 minute of yoga per day improves brain function and synapses between brain cells. The study concluded that after practicing yoga for just twenty minutes daily, the participants were better able to process their mental resources, process information more quickly, and learn more efficiently.
Practice deepening focus and concentration with your child at home with deep breathing exercises, Sivasana Pose, Chair Pose, Mountain Pose, and seated forward bend.
Promotes Physical Health
Children love movement, so yoga is the perfect way for them to harness their active energy in a productive way. Young bodies are naturally flexible, and practicing stretching poses from an early age enables them to maintain their flexibility throughout adulthood. Plus, learning different yoga poses allows children to develop their bodily awareness, to strengthen muscles, and to realize how powerful their bodies are. Yoga is also known for its ability to help grow strong bones, detox, and strengthen the immune system.
Head outdoors with your child and get your daily dose of movement (and fresh air) with a twenty minute repeated series of Sun Salutations!
Balance and Coordination
The effect yoga postures have on balance, coordination, and flexibility skills in developing children has proven to be substantial. Obtaining balance and coordination skills during childhood are important, and can be extra refined through a yoga practice. Balance comes from repeated movements, mastering transitions, and developing strength. There are an array of yoga poses which were designed to help develop balance and coordination, these poses promote physical poise as well as mental clarity and dexterity. Even if your child fails to achieve a one-legged balancing pose their first try, remind them that yoga is about the journey, encourage them to keep trying, and remember to have fun!
Poses to try for balance and coordination: Eagle Pose, Dolphin Plank Pose, Side Plank Pose, and Tree Pose.
Stress Management
Children are faced with countless everyday stresses. Learning to juggle school, homework, friendships, after-school activities, plus, the added expectations of their parents and teachers and peers. They need an outlet for their stress just as adults do. Yoga can be a comprehensive approach to stress, and offers relief from the tension-filled lives of children. Yoga aids in shifting awareness inwardly so that children can become attuned to their own emotions and mental patterns and ultimately learn to manage them better, thus counteracting negative influences, pressures, and expectations.
To calm and relieve stress and tension, try: Child’s Pose, Mountain Pose, Downward Dog, Baby Cobra.
Now that you’re motivated to begin your yoga practice with your little one, where to start!?
The best thing about yoga is that it is simple: all you need to do just show up on your mat. You actually don't even need to go out or find a studio for a class, you can practice right from your bedroom, basement, kitchen, backyard, or your community park. The internet is full of yoga games you can do at home with your child, and countless instructional yoga videos which guide you through each pose.
Check out Cosmic Kids, a great website that makes yoga for children a fun at-home adventure!
http://www.cosmickids.com/
Do a quick Google search to see if there are any kid-friendly yoga classes near you!
Turks and Caicos should be at the top of everyone’s list looking for a safe, quiet family-friendly destination that’s just a few hours away from the USA in a plane. Visit a conch farm. Play in the white sand all day or snorkel in the tranquil clear blue waters. There are many eco-tour operators available to give a proper tour of the island and include fun activities. Eat delicious and fresh seafood for breakfast, lunch and dinner! For adults looking to slip away for a few hours to a nice dinner or to grown-ups only activities: many resorts offer a kids club secure with movies, games and crafts!
This experience is best for older kids, but it might be one of the most magical adventures available: kayaking at night through a glittering, glow-in-the-dark lagoon of phytoplankton. The phosphorescent plankton blink whenever the water is agitated from movement, and look like a million neon stars lighting up the water. Kayaks have clear glass bottoms so that you can watch the light-show up close. For younger children, motor boat tours are available. This experience is true magic that your children will never forget. Puerto Rico also has many lovely areas to explore such as the colored Spanish architecture of Old San Juan and its beautiful beaches.
Being raised in a generation and culture where women were still viewed as second-class citizens, my dreams and sense of self were often obscured with fear and doubt while growing up.
A talk given by Somalian refugee Ilhan Omar, who was recently elected into Congress, inspired me profoundly. She said that when she was born, a family friend apologized to her parents for having a girl as their first child, to which Ilhan’s father replied, “My daughter will grow up to do great things.”
The little girl was indeed raised to believe that she could and would succeed in anything she willed to do, and she did exactly that.
I told a family member about this story because it resonated with my own upbringing, although my experience was on the other side of the spectrum.
My father always expressed how badly he wanted a son, he couldn't wait to bring a boy into the family. My mother tried her best, but this was well before the women's movement had gone mainstream and she hadn't found her voice or her power yet either.
During my growing years, I was surrounded by the mentality of being a less worthy member of society all because of the gender I was born into. I didn’t only experience this attitude from my father, it came from all around—it was embedded into the fabric of my culture, the media was laden with messages which regularly reinforced this belief to all.
When this is the mentality you are raised around, it becomes deep-seated, and it takes a lot of commitment, patience, and inner work to finally reach a space of self-love, self-worth, and self-esteem.
Our youngest years are fragile and impressionable, and what we are taught about our self-worth during those years impacts us throughout adulthood. It’s no secret that mothers are a girl’s first role model, which is why it is so important to ensure that we teach our girls to be empowered early on through our words, actions, and behaviors.
I want a better tomorrow for my daughter. My six-year-old girl is strong and sassy, and I love that about her. It is my mission to raise her to feel empowered, to encourage her to chase big dreams, and to know self-love.
She is a blank canvas at this age, and it is my responsibility to be a good role model. She holds me accountable just by being there, and I love that. Her father and I strive to give her the tools she needs to embrace her uniqueness and to speak up fearlessly.
We teach her that her feelings are valid, that her opinions matter. We discuss and read books that celebrate brave, female changemakers throughout history. Her school has a STEM program and encourages young girls to play the roles of scientist, mathematician, and engineer without gender stereotypes.
She tells me she wants to be a teacher and a mommy when she grows up, and I tell her to chase whatever dreams give her purpose.
The women’s movement has gone fiercely mainstream in recent years, and I am so grateful that my daughter gets to experience this time of collective empowerment and uprising. These days when I switch on the news, the media is overflowing with messages, marches, and movements paving the path for gender equality, and the collective voice is only getting louder.
My hope is that this movement will play a significant role in the better tomorrow that I dream of for my daughter, and for all women on a global scale.
It is through my journey of raising my daughter that I’m learning to discover my true passions in life and to tackle them fearlessly. I’m learning that creating my voice is just as important as finding it.
Self-doubt still occasionally pops up, but no longer stands between me and my dreams, and raising a girl boss gave me the confidence to rewrite a more empowered version of my life story.
My father may not have believed in me, but after quite the journey, I have found belief in myself. And that is the greatest gift I can give to my daughter.
]]>Luckily, experiencing a hefty dose of European charm doesn’t have to require a long-haul flight across the Atlantic or a year's worth of budgeting and planning. There are plenty of cities right in North America bursting with authentic European charisma, culture, and history -- so much in fact, that your children will still absorb all of the positive benefits of the cultural experience right from their home continent.
Let my list of the most European-like cities in North America inspire you to start planning your next cultural family vacation!
1) New Orleans, Louisiana — French Influence
Founded by the French in 1718, New Orleans is still known for its French charm and influence to this day. Until the late 1880’s, French was spoken city-wide until it was banned from city schools entirely. Presently, 200,000 people living in New Orleans still speak French today, and many street signs still have a French translation! The city is famous for its beloved Mardi Gras festival, which dates back to French colonial times. New Orlean’s oldest neighborhood, the French Quarter, boasts numerous architectural structures which blend together it’s Creole, French, and Spanish heritage. French cafe’s dot the old streets where Creole, Cajun, and French cuisine can be enjoyed. Children can run around the many gardens, visit the children’s museum, and try French foods.
2) St Augustine, Florida — Spanish Influence
Just outside of Jacksonville, Florida, lies St. Augustine, the oldest European-settled city in the U.S, which dates back to 1565 when it was founded by the Spanish. The narrow cobblestone streets are lined with Spanish-colonial-era buildings and boutiques. Tourists can visit the museum at Fort Mose, the first free community of ex-slaves, and the city’s lighthouse. Spanish flavor, horse-drawn carriages, hidden courtyards, and restaurants that reflect the town’s multicultural heritage are all activities that can be enjoyed by the entire family!
3) Boston, MA — British Influence
In colonial times, Boston was perceived as the center of British America, and was the largest town in British North America until Philadelphia surpassed it in the eighteenth century. Walking through the streets of Boston, especially along the waterfront, will make you feel as if you’ve been transported back in time to an olde English port town. Walk the Freedom trail via cobblestone streets to learn about the many significant historic steps along the way, including Paul Revere’s house to the iconic Old state House. Boston is a charming city filled with activities that the whole family can enjoy.
4) Solvang, CA — Danish Influence
Solvang was founded in 1911 by a group of Danes escaping their poor economy in Denmark. Exploring the town’s architecture will have you feeling as though you’ve teleported into Copenhagen. Children can taste a piece of authentic Danish culture at one of the many classic Danish bakeries and restaurants. For a dose of historical education, visit the Elverhøj Museum of History and Art, or the Hans Christian Andersen Museum. The city hosts a Danish Days festival in September that features eating competitions, music, dancing, parades, and a Sunday morning breakfast with traditional Danish dishes.
5) Victoria, BC, Canada — British Influence
No need to travel across the Atlantic to enjoy English pleasures like afternoon tea, vibrant gardens, and Victorian-style architecture. Victoria, British Colombia was named after England’s Queen Victoria, and carries all of the same English charm you’d expect to find in England. The royal Butchart Gardens of Victoria transport you to the Royal Palace of London, and the numerous high tea services offered at venues throughout the city will take you a step back in time to Victorian-Era England. Crumpets, scones, Welsh Rarebit, fish & chips, among other classic English fare is abundantly available throughout the city.
6) Montreal, Quebec, Canada — French Influence
The second-largest primarily French-speaking city in the world (just after Paris) will have your little ones feeling the magnetic appeal of the French culture in no time. Montreal city was established in 1611 as a fur trading post by Samuel de Champlain, the same man who founded Quebec City. The cobblestone streets and 17th century buildings still line the streets of Old Montreal, which is the oldest part of the city. Take a horse-drawn carriage to the historic and beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica, one of the city’s oldest buildings, and climb to the top of the 1888 New York Life Building, the oldest skyscraper in Canada. Take your little ones to a streetside cafe for people watching as they nibble on baguettes for an authentic French experience!
7) Washington, D.C. — French Influence
Most people don’t realize that the capital city of the USA, Washington D.C., evokes a feeling that is uniquely French, since, after all, it was designed to be modeled to replicate Paris. Void of “modern” style buildings and skyscrapers, the city manages to maintain a quaint and classic European feel with European-style architecture, impeccably clean streets, and gardens laden throughout the city. The plentiful sidewalk cafes, where French and Italian-style beverages and fare can be enjoyed, may have you feeling that the only thing missing is a view of the Eiffel tower. There are also numerous free family-friendly activities to do, especially with young kids, including the Smithsonian museums, the National Arboretum, and the zoo.
8) Old San Juan, Puerto Rico — Spanish Influence
Once the crown jewel of the Spanish empire of the Americas, the Spanish colonial roots of Old San Juan continue to shine brightly and proudly to this day. The stunning colonial architecture remains well-preserved in the walled city and the brightly colored row houses lining the cobblestone streets are magical and peaceful to wander. Countless cafes with tapas and other Spanish cuisine on their menus fill the alleyways, and offer the perfect atmosphere for enjoying the picturesque views of the old city. The best way to experience all the charm of the city is to simply explore the endless cobblestone streets and the old Spanish fortress by foot.
9) Holland, Michigan — Dutch Influence
Holland, Michigan is a quaint, unassuming town that lives up to its literal name. It was founded by the Dutch over two centuries ago and maintains the integrity of its cultural heritage well throughout. Situated near the shores of Lake Michigan, Holland boasts its own annual Tulip time Festival each spring at the Veldheer Tulip Gardens, which resemble the tulip gardens found in the European Holland. Filled with pieces of its Dutch roots, tourists can easily explore the traditional Dutch style “village” on foot, as well as visit the 250-year old original Dutch windmill. The cute, old-fashioned downtown is complete with a nice brewery, bakeries, and charming little shops for a nice afternoon of shopping. The surrounding nature is peaceful and is lovely for exploring during the day too. Bikes can easily be rented as well for a family adventure exploring the nearby Macatawa River.
10) Lindsborg, Kansas — Swedish Influence
The charming town of Lindsborg is better known as Little Sweden, USA. Settled by Swedish immigrants back in the 1800’s, this is about as close to the real thing as you can get from the other side of the Atlantic. Even the community library is stocked with Swedish books, and a large percentage of its inhabitants speak Swedish as their household language. The local signs and roadsides are in Swedish AND English. Swedish bites can be found at one of the numerous Swedish bakeries owned by some of the relatives of the original immigrants. Have an adventurous day with your children, and encourage them to try some new Swedish foods, like lingonberry jam, Swedish meatballs, and Semla!
“I am my own muse. I am the subject I know best. The subject I want to better.”
It’s no secret that the iconic Frida Kahlo has touched the hearts and souls of countless artists, free-spirits, feminists, and creative-minds around the world.
Her legacy lives on more powerfully than ever, and continues to inspire all who catch a glimpse of her bold artwork, and hear her tragic, yet triumphant life-story.
My friends and I recently dressed up as Frida Khalo to attend an event held at a museum where the aim was to try to set the world record for the largest amount of people dressed up as Frida Khalo in one space. I couldn’t believe the incredible turn-out! Thousands of women of all ages, children, and even some men, showed up for the occasion. Everyone was uniquely dressed as their own versions of the stylish legend, sporting flowery-headbands, flowy dresses, and striking, caterpillary unibrows.
When I lived in Barcelona, frequenting a Frida inspired restaurant was one of my favorite things to do. I’d pop in whenever I had a free afternoon, slowly savoring Mexican dishes dripping in zesty sauces while delighting in the artful atmosphere which served to celebrate this fabulous woman who advocated fearlessness and freedom.
Recently, a quick Google search helped me discover countless Frida inspired restaurants all over the world, in Florida, Texas, Colorado, Japan, Poland, New Zealand, Spain, and beyond! I’m eager to try as many more as possible.
Enjoy traditional Mexican dishes with a Hawaiian twist at a Frida inspired restaurant in Maui. Or, sip a dark roasted coffee while listening to live African bands at a Frida’s inspired coffee bar in South Africa. Casa Azul restaurant in Thailand is themed after Frida’s own house in Mexico city! Or, treat yourself to authentic tacos at Friducha, a restaurant in Brooklyn, NY with quotes and images of all things Frida in the decor.
There are so many opportunities to celebrate the lasting impressions of this beloved surrealist muse.
Cantina Machito, Barcelona, Spain
https://www.atrapalo.com/restaurantes/cantina-machito_f4933.html
Frida Kahlo Mexican Restaurant & Lucy's Bakery, Solon, IA
https://www.fridakahlomexicanrestaurant.com/
Friducha, Brooklyn, NY
Cafe Frida, New York, New York
Frida's Mexican Beach House, Maui, Hawaii
Frida's Mexican Grill, Napa, CA
http://fridasmexicangrill.com/
Frida's Gourmet Mexican Cuisine
Anacortes, WA
El Jardín de Frida, Tulum, Mexico
Frida Kahlo Restaurante, Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
http://www.fridakahlorestaurante.com/
Frida, Riviera Maya, Mexico
https://rivieramaya.grandvelas.com/dining/frida.aspx
El Mexico De Frida, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
http://www.elmexicodefrida.com/
LaFrida
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g152515-d1755790-Reviews-LaFrida-Cabo_San_Lucas_Los_Cabos_Baja_California.html
Cafe Frida Kahlo, Nuremberg, Germany
https://www.cafe-fridakahlo.de/
Frida, Poland
Casa Frida, Fort Lauderdale, FL
http://www.casafridamexicancuisine.com/
Frida’s Tacolandia, Dallas, TX
https://www.facebook.com/taqueriafridas/
Casa Azul De Andrea, San Antonio, TX
Frida Kahlo Cafe, Brownsville, TX
https://www.facebook.com/Frida-Kahlo-Caf%C3%A9-2032050140348320/
Frida Colibries, Redwood City, CA
https://www.fridacolibries.com/
Kahlo's, Denver, CO
https://www.facebook.com/Kahlos-323032561428889/
Restaurante Fridas, Antigua, Gautemala
https://www.facebook.com/RestauranteFridas
Cocina Mestiza, Portugal
Cantina Kahlo, Manama, Bahrain
http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/middle-east/bahrain/dining/cantina-kahlo
La Mexicana, Bali
https://www.facebook.com/LA-MEXICANA-151269971714628/
Los Sotano, Hong Kong
https://www.facebook.com/LosSotano/
Casa Azul, Bangkok, Thailand
https://www.facebook.com/casaazulbkk/
Agave, Tokyo, Japan
https://www.worldsbestbars.com/bar/tokyo/city-center/agave
Frida Cocina Mexicana & Tequila Bar, New Zealand
https://www.facebook.com/fridanewzealand/
Frida's Coffee Bar, Gauteng, South Africa
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the daily life of Salaama Obedia and her Sambaa family, told by Megan Abbott for Cheeni
Irente, Tanzania, Africa
Seven year-old Salaama wakes up before the sun each morning in the one-room mud hut she shares with her family. Her family is of the Sambaa tribe found high up in the Usumbara Mountains of Tanzania. Old tribal traditions still stand strong here, living conditions are basic, and the average yearly income is $500 per year per family.
Salaama’s family’s house.
There is no electricity in Salaama's hut, but small strands of pre-dawn rays slip through the cracks on the walls, offering just enough light to avoid stepping on any wandering scorpions on the way out the door each morning. She steps outside and finds mama already awake, sweeping the dirt floor that surrounds the outside of her house. Her baby sister, Yuusa, is wrapped tightly in a brightly colored kanga around Mama’s back. Fau and Neema, her other little sisters, are still asleep on the straw mat inside the hut, and bibi (Swahili word for grandmother) is tending to the goats.
Mama greets Salaama, kisses her forehead, asks her about her dreams, and hands her a miswak stick to brush her teeth. It is not common for girls in such rural areas of Tanzania to go to school. Instead, they shadow their mothers from a young age learning how to cook, clean, run a household, and care for babies, elderly, and sick members of the family. Houses typically do not have electricity or running water, so there is a lot of work to be done just to keep the house in order. Despite the hardships, Sambaa families are full of love for one another, and generally live in such close quarters that it is custom to maintain a respectful level of peace and harmony.
Salaama’s father already left an hour earlier to begin his two-hour walk to work at a farm up the mountain, he’ll be back before dusk. Most men find work on vegetable farms in the lush, fertile hills, where they can hope to make $1 or $2 per day for a full 8 hours of laborious work.
Salaama’s mountain village
Water for all drinking, cooking, and cleaning must be fetched in 5-gallon buckets from the village well down the road. Normally Mama goes alone, but Salaama is getting to the age where she wants to learn to balance buckets of water on her head like the older girls. She regularly asks to come along with Mama, and sometimes even goes alone to fetch buckets. Mama doesn’t mind the extra help.
Salaama’s mama is a pro, she can balance two buckets!
It takes about an hour each morning to haul six 5-gallon buckets from the village well and back home. This will be plenty of water for the day so long as everyone is careful not to waste a drop. Mama breastfeeds Yuusa while Salaama runs off to the bush behind the house to collect some kindling to start a fire for cooking breakfast. No houses have modern day stoves or ovens, all cooking is done over a small fire or burning wood coals, but Salaama’s mama insists that the food tastes better this way!
Breakfast is always the same. A traditional Tanzanian tea and porridge made from water and corn flour. Salaama eats quickly, washes her dish without being asked, and asks to go play outside with her other sisters who have finished eating as well.
It is nearly unheard of for children to have toys or electronics, or for houses to have televisions or entertainment systems. Children are left entirely to their own imaginations and come up with impressive inventions to play with. Salama and her sisters play for hours everyday with little “people” figurines they’ve crafted from mud and left to dry in the sun.
Around lunchtime Salaama and her sisters help mama cook. Mama is careful letting Salaama around the fire, but Salaama is more than eager to want to be present and learn. For lunch they cook ugali, a staple starch in Tanzanian cuisine, which is a stiff dough made from maize flour boiled in water. They eat it with a vegetable sauce made from tomatoes and leafy greens their father harvested on his farm.
Mama puts the baby to sleep after lunch and Salaama offers to wash the dishes. She knows how to do this carefully, without wasting a drop of the precious water. While the baby is sleeping, Salaama’s mama heats a big pot of water over the fire so that she can give the three older girls a bucket bath. Bathing three children with just one bucket of warm water turns out to be a tedious, lengthy process involving lots of giggles.
When Salaama gets dressed she asks mama with a big proud smile if she can go fetch another bucket of water from the well.
Go Salaama!
It is custom to buy food daily on an as-needed basis, as mice and insects infest vegetables quickly, and homes don’t have proper storage or refrigerators to keep their foods safe. Papa comes home with a handful of vegetables each night to cook for their dinner. Since they are without a proper kitchen and must prepare the meal on a mat on the ground, they begin food-prep a couple of hours before the actual meal. Tanzanians are firm-believers in “slow food.” Food is prepared at a relaxed pace and then cooked slowly over a fire, one pot or pan at a time.
Dinner is a savory eggplant, tomato sauce served over rice and eaten with hands, as all meals are. Nearly everything eaten on a daily basis is vegetarian, as meat is expensive and difficult to store, so it’s saved only for special occasions like weddings and holidays.
It is custom each evening for the family to sit altogether on the straw mat next to the crackling fire and listen to bibi or father tell age-old stories about lions or Maasai warriors in the bus that their own grandparents and parents had passed down to them before. Since no one has television or electronic devices, storytelling is a hugely significant part of the culture and observed by families everyday.
The family retires altogether on the floor of their mud hut in a nest of blankets atop a straw mat around 8 or 9 each night. Tired from the hard work and eventful day, they all wish each other “lala salama” (sweet dreams) before dozing off and starting again tomorrow.
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In the USA, we are so fortunate to have each come from a rainbow of different cultural backgrounds from all over the world. Teaching our children the importance of embracing different cultures and ethnicities allows them to develop qualities of equality early-on in their lives. Experiencing new and exotic cultures is not only a lot of fun for children and adults alike, it’s also life-changing, mind-enriching, and enlightening.
The good news is that you don’t necessarily need to fly half-way across the world to experience new and exotic cultures with your family. You can do it right from your home town or city. A quick Google search will help you locate an array of international festivals near you. Here’s a list of common cultural festivals found in cities all around the USA.
Wooden Shoe Tulip Fest
You don’t have to fly to Holland to enjoy endless fields of gorgeous blooming tulips in the springtime. You can just head to Wooden Shoe, Oregon instead. The Wooden Shoe Tulip farm invites you to come stroll through 40 acres of picture-perfect tulip blooms every year from March until the beginning of May. This festival is the perfect opportunity to spend time in nature and enjoy the fresh spring air. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic, indulge in a wine tasting, and enjoy the majestic views of Mt. Hood.
Renaissance Festival
Get your best flower crown and renaissance costume ready for a medieval good time! There’s no better place for old style entertainment than traveling back in time to the days of yore and merry England. Drink mead while you watch chivalrous knights joust on their noble steeds. Usually these festivals have a myriad of performers, storytellers, jugglers, acrobats, and even mermaids, enjoyable for both children and adults alike. Don’t forget to try the old fashioned mini-cakes with a glass of tea!
Kite festival
Kite festivals have been celebrated worldwide for ages. This tradition was originally formed in India hundreds of years ago as a symbol of awakening the gods from their deep sleep after winter. Nowadays, each springtime, this colorful festival is celebrated in cities all around the world. Enjoy an array of different kites in a variety of designs and a rainbow palette of different colors. You can either fly your own kite, or you can just go to enjoy the spectacle and the fresh air.
African Dance & Drumming Festival
African men and women swathed in colorful kangas and decorative jewelry stomping their feet and shaking their hips to djembe beats and bongo drums: what a spectacle. Dance is an integral element of African culture, as it is the common thread connecting the many countries and cultures throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Sample the traditional dishes of ugali, ndazi, and chapati while you sit back and become one with the heart of Africa through a traditional dance show.
Latino Carnival
The bright, high-energy nature of the Latino culture comes alive in the form of colorful fabrics, spicy foods, and passionate traditional dances. Latino festivals celebrate an array of different sub-cultures, from those of Mexico down to Argentina. Swing your hips to salsa or bachata dance music, delight in as many tacos topped with guacamole and pico de gallo as you possibly can, and enjoy activities for kids, such as Mexican flower arrangements and colorful face paintings.
Bastille Day
Celebrate the French culture with fine cheeses, sweet crepes and fun activities. Between the mimes, stilt walkers and classic wine barrel rolling competitions, it’ll feel as though you’re celebrating right under the Eiffel Tower. Don’t forget to grab a classic glass of Burgundy or Bordeaux to amp up the authenticity!
Native American Pow-wow
Debatably the most relevant culture to observe on this entire list for us Americans: Let us celebrate the peaceful-hearted humans who have reminded us time and again to walk the earth in harmony. There are over 500 Native American tribes, each with their own language, culture, traditions, and customs, but typically pow-wows hold similar traditions across tribes. Celebrate with tribal singing shows, displays of impressive beadwork, handmade clothing, and traditional ceremonies held inside of tipis. Children can learn how to craft a dreamcatcher and take part in a traditional dance. Don’t forget to try the Native American fry bread, it’s a mouth-watering treat!
Hungarian Festival
Bring your little bohemian dressed in boho clothing and experience authentic live gypsy and folk music performances. Hungarian festivals are known for their great puppet shows, which are a hit for the little ones. It’s no secret that Hungarian food is one of the world’s best kept secrets, so don’t miss out on the goulash, strudels, fried dough langos, and sour cherry soup.
Diwali: The Hindu Festival of Lights
This ancient festival represents the light overthrowing darkness, good defeating evil, knowledge instead of ignorance, and hope over despair. Diwali is derived from the Sanskrit word “deepavali” meaning, “row of lights.” So naturally, this festival is illuminated with boundless candles and small clay lamps filled with oil to symbolize the feat of light over darkness. The flames are left burning all night to welcome the Hindu goddess of happiness, Lakshmi, to come roam the earth during the festival and bring good fortune to the clean-hearted. Firecrackers are lit to drive away impure spirits, treats like khil (rice puffs) are shared, and many families draw a rangoli, a decorative, colorful pattern, in the entrance of their homes.
Lunar New Year
Determined by the lunar calendar, Chinese New year falls on a different date every year and is regarded as the most important festival in China. This day is best spent exchanging red “Lai-See” envelopes filled with good-luck money to all your loved ones, watching an ethereal golden dragon dance, and seeing how long you can resist those wafting scents of savory Chinese finger-foods before you give in to those delicious dumplings already. Chinese New year represents turning over a new leaf and spreading wishes of good fortune, health, wealth and happiness along to all of your family and friends.
Greek Festival
Ever wanted to learn a Greek-line dance whilst indulging on flavorful Mediterranean cuisine? Head to the nearest Greek festival for authentic Hellenic musical performances, traditional dancing, and a lively dose of fun. And let’s not forget about the stuffed grape leaves (coma), kieftethes (greek meatballs), feta fries, gyros, goat burgers, and robust Greek wines! Greek festivals are a great opportunity to taste the mountains, islands, villages, and true culture of Greece without the 9 hour flight.
]]>It’s no secret that all around the world children and adults alike feel uplifted, electrified even, in colorful surroundings. That’s because colors connect us, they breathe life into the world around us, and they have the power to fill just about anything with energy and character.
Typically, when people go about planning for their next adventure, things like food, architecture, and activities are the main focus for choosing a destination, but one fundamental piece of the puzzle is often neglected: color.
Here is a list of 11 chromatic destinations that will leave you and your little ones feeling giddy and inspired together.
1. Juzcar, Spain – Smurf Village
Distinguishable by a cluster of electric-blue painted houses nestled in the sleepy green hills of rural Andalusia is Juzcar: the first and only Smurf village in the world.
Originally a creative campaign idea by Sony Pictures to promote their Smurfs movie, the village was painted a sleek coat of bright blue in 2011. The blue color was intended to be temporary, but ended up attracting hoards of intrigued tourists to the region. As the locals watched their economy grow as a result, the village voted to keep the blue hue. The Smurfs village is wonderfully located in a lush and natural setting of Andalusia, teeming with culture, food, and outdoor possibilities.
2. Jaipur, India – Pink city
Remnants of a majestic past coat the capital city of Rajasthan in a soothing shade of terra-cotta pink, bringing balance to the modern-day mayhem of Juipur.
The city was painted pink by the ruler of Jaipur in a frenzied attempt to impress Prince Albert during his tour around India in 1876. The earthy-rose shade was chosen to symbolize warmth and hospitality, and covers every street and building in the city’s historic center. Even after Prince Albert’s departure, the ruler’s favorite wife convinced him to keep the city painted pink because she fancied the way it looked.
3. Chefchaouen, Morocco – The Blue Pearl
Tucked away in the northern Rif mountains of Morocco, the magic of this ethereal blue city is undeniably charming. Never-ending dreamy hues of blue coat the labyrinth and its maze-like streets and alleyways— even the taxi’s are blue!
Exactly why Chefchaouen is painted entirely blue will forever remain a bit of a mystery, although the locals have quite a few theories, depending on who you ask. Some say the blue paint was originally used to repel mosquitos away. Others insist that the Jews introduced the color in the late 1400’s as a symbol of peace when they took refuge in the city during the Spanish inquisition. However, most claim that the blue color is simply meant to represent harmony, to serve as a constant reminder of the tranquil sky and heavens.
4. Guanajuato, Mexico – Magical City
A vivid patchwork display of brightly colored buildings and houses in the hills of central Mexico form Guanajuato, one of the most picturesque cities in Central America.
The city was once a silver mining town but is now a recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Considering it’s highly colorful appeal, perhaps the most peculiar and alluring attribute of the town is the lack of tourists and crowds, which makes it endlessly more enjoyable to wander.
From narrow cobblestone alleyways to neon-colored houses that ascend high into the hills, and stunning Baroque-style architecture— there are endless possibilities to be discovered in this unspoiled gem.
5. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Favela Paintings
The Santa Marta slum in Rio de Janeiro used to look like a lot like all the other favelas in the city— dismal and run-down with a reputation for being feared and dangerous.
But thanks to the inspiring vision of two Dutch artists, the 34 buildings which form the Santa Marta slum have been miraculously transformed into a multi-colored work of art. The Dutch duo gathered residents to help with the majority of the paint work, giving them the opportunity to personally partake in this pivotal upgrade. The Favela Painting Project has made a tremendously positive impact on the community and the well-being of its residents.
6. Sardinia, Italy – Spiaggia Rosa – Cotton Candy Beach
Speckled with candy-colored villages, impressive street art, and translucent waters, the Island of Sardinia is home to some of Italy’s most stunning destinations. Wandering the cobblestone alleyways lined with stacked rainbow houses in hilly Bosa village is an absolute must (not to mention, a prime photo opportunity!)
Just off the coast, Budelli Island is blessed with some of the most dazzling colored beaches in the world. The pink sands of Spiaggia Rosa beach are formed from crushed pieces of red coral, staining the shoreline a glistening hue of raspberry. Pristine azure waters lining the coast are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just cooling off.
Unfortunately, at some point in recent years past, the beach began to lose much of its unique pink color as a result of tourists taking bottles and jars of the sand home as souvenirs. Luckily, much of the color has been recovered thanks to efforts taken by park officials.
7. Gansu Province, China Zhangye Danxia - Rainbow Mountain
This celestial, mountainous rainbowscape found in northwestern China is one of planet earth’s most striking geological gems. Vivid bands of white, red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple undulate across these massive sandstone formations.
Over time, water, weather, and oxidization are responsible for staining these rocks and causing the multi-colored effect. The oxidization of different minerals produces different colors, for example, iron oxide causes red pigmentation and the oxidization of iron sulfide will result in a metallic yellow color.
8. Bonn, Germany – Cherry Blossom Avenue
With a bit of planning, you can arrange to see the cobblestone streets of Cherry Blossom Avenue bursting with bubble-gum pink blossoms. The peak of the magic occurs every spring, normally in April. The trees were planted sometime in the 1980’s and attract a growing number of spectators with each new bloom.
The street is located in the city center, just five minutes away from Beethoven’s house, in the Nordstadt neighborhood.
9. Kitakyushu, Japan - Kawachi Fuji Gardens
An exquisite explosion of pink, purple and white wisteria blossoms fill the canopy of several large tunnels and domes bi-yearly in the Kawachi Wisteria Gardens. The blossoms peak every spring and fall and this fairytale walkway is only open to visitors during that time. Wistoria flowers hold great cultural significance in Japan, dating back to the Nara Period, and play a large role in various historical legends and beliefs.
10. Buenos Aires, Argentina — La Boca
A surge of European immigrants in the 1800’s transformed the barrio of La Boca into a zesty, tango-whirlin’ work of art. The stacked, kaleidoscopic houses acquired their patchwork-patterned colors from immigrant residents who were too poor to afford to buy paint, and were left with no other choice but to use left-over paint they scoured off the streets and dumpsters— except they never found enough of the same color to cover an entire house. Some of the houses have up to six colors each!
11. San Francisco— Painted ladies
A list of the most colorful places in the world would be incomplete without super groovy San Francisco and its iconic Painted Ladies.
The row of six Victorian houses located on Alamo Square were originally painted gray after they were constructed in the late 1800’s. As a result of the colorful hippie movement in the 1960’s, these homes, along with many others in San Francisco, were transformed into a multi-colored palette of pastel hues and continue to attract an abundance of tourists year round.
This revolutionary collection of short stories celebrates extraordinary women from around the globe, past and present, who have changed the course of history.
My daughter and I love reading them together, and her classroom peers and their mothers have all fallen in love with the book as well. We enjoy revelling in the remarkable lives of these inspirational women before bedtime, like Harriet Tubman, Frida Khalo, J.K. Rowling, and countless lesser-known but equally powerful others.
One-hundred influential females fill the pages of this book. Each new page is dedicated to a different lady, and details their unique accomplishments, challenges, and life endeavors. The engaging, easy-to-read stories are printed in large font and written in simple language so that even young readers can understand and follow along. Beautiful illustrations by female artists from around the world accompany each story.
Fairy tales and princess stories can move aside, it’s reads like this one that make a real, positive impact in our girls lives. Empowering and relatable, these stories encourage females across the globe to cultivate their self-worth and to dream bigger than they ever before imagined.
The future is female, so let’s give our girls powerful real-life heroines to show them what they are capable of. Everyone who cares about the future of women needs a copy of this book! https://www.rebelgirls.co/
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Happiness has little to do with comfort, money, or possessions. True happiness comes from within and we are all worthy and capable of attaining it in our lives. Life is much more fulfilling when we can truly feel and appreciate its beauty rather than feeling overwhelmed by its challenges.
While working at Fossil, we had a company-wide meeting and these happiness tips were presented to us. They’re simple and have helped me focus on being happy the past few years. Try them out to boost your mood and overall sense of well-being!
1. View stress as a challenge; not a threat
Simply put, stress is an unavoidable part of life, but just a small shift in perspective can help it feel a lot less daunting whenever a stressful situation arises. Making a conscious effort to view stress as a manageable challenge (rather than an uncontrollable threat) can do wonders for your well-being! Just remember: focus on the task, not the emotion.
2. Focus on the Positive
Each day we are presented with a wide spectrum of different emotions, circumstances, and environments. We experience the good, the bad, and everything in between, yet it is up to us whether to focus on the positive or dwell in the negative aspects of our experiences. Research has proven that choosing to focus on the positive has numerous advantages such as: lower stress, strengthened immune system, lowered rates of depression and anxiety, and overall better psychological and physical well-being!
3. Find Meaning
This one is vital. Without a sense of meaning happiness can feel distant in our lives. Luckily, cultivating a purposeful life is just simply combining your passions with action, so make plenty of time to do things that fuel your passion and make your heart soar! Studies show that individuals who feel a sense of purpose in their lives are more resilient to stress and have a healthier outlook on life.
4. Stay Connected
To feel more connected with others, first we need to maintain a healthy connection with ourselves. Make self-care a priority. Spend at least a few minutes alone to rebalance and ground before you take on the world each day. Deep breaths, simple yoga stretches, a meditative cup of tea, smiling in the mirror— anything that brings you back to your center!
5. Be Grateful
Choose gratitude, always. Even when your world feels like it’s spinning out of control, bring your focus back to all the reasons you feel thankful in your life. It will instantly give you a more optimistic outlook and will help bring the bigger picture into focus, reminding you that everything is always, always going to be alright. Remember, it’s not happy people who are thankful, it’s thankful people who are happy.
Smiling is the key to happiness! Don't put your key in someone else’s pocket. Stay happy!😊
]]>Sure, midnight might be a little past your children’s bedtime, especially for the younger ones, but you can tweak your New Year celebrations to fit into your schedule. Why not hold a mock New Year’s Eve celebration at 7 or 8 pm, or even on New Year’s day? That will give you plenty of time to try out these worldly traditions! Your little ones will love learning about how children from different cultures celebrate the New Year.
You could also head to the library beforehand to find some books about the New Year to read up on the history of New Year’s Day, and to learn more about how it has been celebrated throughout the times all over the world. The book Happy New Year! by Emery Bernhard is a great one for children, as it goes into the ways different cultures celebrate, and even when they celebrate since some people around the world celebrate New Years at different times! The book even discuses why Julius changed the beginning of the new year to January 1st instead of March, which was originally the first month of the year, how interesting is that!
Read about the New Year’s traditions of these 8 different cultures and try out the kid-friendly ideas for each one!
1.) A Spanish New Year!
In Spain, everyone grabs a skewer of 12 grapes just before midnight. Each grape is eaten consecutively, one after the other, on the 12 strokes of the midnight clock. If you manage all 12 you will have a lucky year.
At home: Take out a map and find Spain in relation to your own home! Instead of racing to eat the grapes, tell everyone to think up their greatest New Years resolution while they are eating them, and after the 12th grape is eaten, they have to share their resolution with the family! And since grapes are a choking hazard, be sure to cut them into quarters or halves for smaller children.
2.) Italian bright red knickers!
Every Italian from the north to the south of the Boot will be sure to wear red underwear on New Years Eve to ensure that their upcoming year will be filled with good luck! Brazilians follow a similar tradition, but instead of just sticking to red, they swear any brightly colored underwear will do!
At home: Have your little ones find Italy on the map. Take a leaf out of Italy’s book and join in on the tradition by reminding your children to put on their brightest, most fun underwear while they get dressed on the morning of the new year to make sure their year is filled with as much good luck as possible!
3.) Hungarian noise makers!
Hungarians know how to keep their New Year full of good fortune by scaring away all of the evil spirits on New Year’s Eve. In an effort to scare away evil spirits, people make as much noise as they can using kazoos and paper horns to keep any negative energy away in the coming year! People also wear silly hats and masks to confuse evil spirits and to send them back to a dormant state.
At home: Have a craft session on New Years eve with your kids and make kazoos, paper horns and fun masks to follow along on this Hungarian tradition! All of these things can usually be made with materials already lying around the house. A simple kazoo can be made by attaching a piece of tissue paper over the end of an empty toilet paper roll with a rubber band, and then punching a hole in the center of the tissue paper. Blow into the hole and let the “do, do, do!” sounds commence! Have fun making noise to ring in the new year!
4.) Scotland first footer tradition!
An age old Scottish New Year’s Day tradition involves having members of the family (called the footers) enter the house carrying ‘gifts’ which symbolically bring good fortune into the New Year.
At home: Have your kids participate in this tradition by first assigning them different traditional ‘gifts’, then going outside, closing the door, and having them knock or ring the bell to get back inside. Once they re-enter with the gifts, then the house and family are blessed with the thing that each item represents! Some of the traditional gifts include: bread— represents abundance, a coin— represents financial prosperity, salt— represents flavor, a cup of tea— represents good cheer!
5.) German Marzipan goodluck pigs!
This old German tradition believes that gifting these adorable little pigs to loved ones on the New Year will bring them good luck. So spend your New Years day getting crafty in the kitchen with these yummy marzipan pigs! Your children will have so much fun making them.
At home: To make the Marzipan Pigs you’ll simply need a block of marzipan and some food coloring, plus some tooth picks for modeling. Color the marzipan pink using a few drops of red food coloring, and then knead the marzipan thoroughly to make it moldable. Make an oblong ball for the body, 4 little balls for the stumpy feet, a disc for the nose, 2 triangles for ears and a curly piece for the tail, and then have your children put them all into place. The pigs should be very miniature, about the size of a young child’s fist. If the pieces fall off while you’re putting them into place, a little water should help them stay attached.
Have your children gift them to their friends, or other family members to wish them good luck for the new year in the German way!
6.) Brazilian pomegranate seeds
There are all kinds of Brazilian superstitions surrounding New Years Eve. Some Brazilians believe that if they want to ensure a new year filled with financial prosperity then they must eat rice and lentils just before midnight on New Year’s Eve. Others go to the ocean at midnight to jump over 3 waves to bring good luck. Lighting sparklers and fireworks are also a popular activity that night. Perhaps the biggest superstition of all is the belief that wearing black on New Year’s eve is a big no-no, and represents a bad omen for year to come, brightly colored clothes are a must!
At home: Top it all off with a Brazilian New Year’s tradition that you can try at home with your children, eat 8 pomegranate seeds for good luck, one at a time. Each pomegranate seed represents one wish (which shouldn’t be shared out loud!) for the new year, upon swallowing the seed, each wish begins manifesting!
7.) Poland has a variety of traditions!
Polish people firmly believe that it’s important to remember NOT to sweep the house on New Year’s eve, as you might sweep out all of the good luck! Also, it’s important on New Year’s day to have a full pantry of fruit, bread, and chocolate— as it will promise prosperity for the new year.
At home: Two family friendly New Year’s traditions that you can try at home with your children are making preserves, jams or jellies which are canned and saved to be eaten throughout the year. And, on New Year’s eve, a big tradition is to “burn your worries,” i.e., worries or bad habits which would like to be released should be written down on strips of paper and then burned one by one over a candle— obviously this part needs to be done by an adult, as it can be dangerous, but can be done as a family while the children write down their fears and watch them get burned, they’ll have newfound confidence to face their fears!
8.) Japanese rice paper affirmations!
In Japan, it is custom to gather with all loved ones, family and friends, and have a homemade potluck dinner and then to sing karaoke together. It is very popular to indulge on lots and lots of Mochi on this day, which are delicious traditional Japanese rice cakes! Perhaps you can try to find them at your local supermarket in the International foods section.
At home: Locate Japan on the map with your children, and then write down your hopes and wishes for the New Year on little squares of rice paper, hanging them all around your house to bring good luck! Also, try some Mochi, and have a karaoke party!
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Bella & Harry's Adventures
This heartwarming series has won the hearts of my daughter and I! These vibrantly illustrated picture books chronicle the adventures of a curious pup named Bella and her little brother Harry as they travel around the world together. This series is a fantastic way to introduce young readers to new cultures and customs through the adventures of these two lovable little Chihuahuas!
Lily & Baa in Paris
This cheerful read gives children a fascinating glimpse into one of the most idyllic cities in the world! Explore the delicious foods, classic architecture, and bright colors of Paris with Lily and her little sheep, Baa. The engaging illustrations and plot will instantly have you and your little one feeling as though you are right there walking along the streets of Paris with them. We can’t wait to see where Lily and Baa will end up next!
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lily-baa-in-paris-sohanya-r-cheng/1123526564
Pop Up London
Finally, it’s your chance to explore one of the world’s most famous cities in 3D form right from your own bedroom! This vividly illustrated book with paper pop-up scenes is informative and charming for children of a range of ages. Some of the pop-up scenes are interactive, allowing the reader to sail a ship through the Tower Bridge, while other scenes are informative, offering a wealth of information about specific landmarks. Filled to the brim with adventure, fun, and information, this book is a delightful read for all!
https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Up-London-Jennie-Maizels/dp/0763657875
This Is' Series
First published in the 1960’s but recently updated, Mirolev Sasek’s stylish & timeless children’s travel book series takes you on adventures through Paris, Hong Kong, Australia, Israel, New York and a handful of other captivating destinations. These thoughtfully illustrated books will keep you and your child engaged throughout each witty storyline.
https://www.amazon.com/Miroslav-Sasek/e/B001HD307E
Off We Go to Mexico
Learn spanish words and phrases with this charming, rhyming story. Explore glimpses of Mexican culture throughout each one of its colorful pages. The bright illustrations will take you on a ride through a tour of Mexico: swim in turquoise waters, listen to a mariachi band, taste the local culture, and visit a native village.
http://store.barefootbooks.com/off-we-go-to-mexico.html/
Madlenka
Where is Madlenka? Well, at a glance it would appear that she lives on an ordinary city block. But when Madlenka’s tooth is loose and she want’s to tell the entire neighborhood the news, we soon learn that her city block is just as diverse as the world itself! As we meet all her neighbors— a German opera singer, a French baker, an Asian shopkeeper, an African school friend— we also learn greetings in all their native languages! A delightfully cheerful book that depicts just how diverse our own backyard can be!
https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780312659127
Tokyo Friends
Take a walk through modern day Tokyo with Katie, an American girl who just moved to Japan. When Katie meets Keiko and Kenji, a young Japanese girl and her brother, they end up exploring the sights and sounds of Tokyo together. They learn about the different customs of each of their respective cultures and also discover all the ways in which they are alike.
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tokyo-friends-betty-reynolds/1110898449
This Is How We Do It
This charming story celebrates the real lives of seven kids from around the world. The way kids play, the foods they eat, their daily chores, customs, and religions are followed from Italy, Japan, Iran, India, Peru, Uganda, and Russia. This is a great way to teach your children about the similarities and differences of cultures from around the world.
A Ticket Around the World
In this story, a young globetrotting boy visits friends in 6 different continents, spanning 13 different countries. Each new setting familiarizes young readers with interesting facts about each country he visits, such as language, food, culture, and more. The unique format of this book, which includes maps for each country mentioned, is a great tool for teaching about the geography and landmarks all around the world.
Everyone Says “I Love You”
What’s more heartfelt that learning how to say “I love you” in an array of different languages from around the world? This clever book contains a pop-up with an essential feature from each location: “Nakupenda" through an African Safari, shout “I love you” from the top of the Statue of Liberty, and whisper “Ti Amo” from a gondola ride in Italy. Children will love learning how people express their love from around the world!
https://www.amazon.com/Everyone-Says-I-Love-You/dp/0843189525
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Child In the Moon Wooden Music Box
What’s more nostalgic than an heirloom-quality wooden music box? This charming, hand-painted music box plays a classic lullaby at the pull of a string, and dreamily depicts a young girl sitting on a crescent moon.
Princess and the Pea Set
This classic-style gift set includes a crochet princess doll with a hand carved wooden bed, complete with an array of patterned, stuffed mattresses, a pillow and a crochet green pea. Your little one will have so much fun re-enacting the tale of Princess and the Pea with this set!
My Little Armoire
These stylish, lovable friends features a rabbit and a little mouse. Each little plush has cute patterned outfits for your little one's imaginatiadventures. It all fits inside a beautiful suitcase which is perfect to take the friends on outings.
Animal Folly Wooden Puzzle
Each piece of this premium quality wooden jigsaw puzzle has been hand-cut into the shapes of different animals. Your little ones will have endless fun with this 3-in-1 toy: play with the animal figures individually, piece them together in a puzzle, and play an animal ii-spy game.
Penelope's Birthday Party
Another adorable puzzle, but this one is ideal for 3-to-5 year olds who are just learning the concept of piecing a puzzle together. This wooden jigsaw puzzle with large-sized pieces features an illustration of various animals celebrating a birthday, with balloons, birthday cake, and presents!
https://www.bellalunatoys.com/products/penelope-s-birthday-kids-wooden-jigsaw-puzzle
Rainbow Stacking Arches
This colorful, wooden stacking toy is great for very young children who are still developing their motor skills. They can make a tunnel, experiment with building different shapes, or simply learn to stack the 6 rainbow pieces in consecutive order!
http://thewoodenwagon.com/woodentoy/BSH1070.html
Blooming Fairy Fayre
Magic awaits at the Blooming Fairy Fayre! Take your tiny fairies way up high on the wooden ferris wheel, or for a ride on the colorful unicorns at wooden merry-go-round! Your little one will love taking their tiny fairies to the fair.
http://www.magiccabin.com/blooming-fairy-fayre-special.htm
Wooden Toy Dr Kit
Allow your children to learn how doctors care for their patients with this charmingly illustrated wooden doctor’s kit. Children can learn to use a stethoscope, a reflex hammer, a gauze bandage, and more with the “pretend” wooden pieces and tools that come in the box. Encouraging your children to play doctor with this kit will help them feel less afraid when it’s time for an actual visit to the doctor!
https://www.bellalunatoys.com/products/kids-doctor-kit-moulin-roty
Castle
This magical set transports your child and their imagination back to explore medieval times. Complete with a dragon, a castle, a witch, a white horse, and a treasure chest, your little ones will get lost for hours in this enchanted little kingdom.
http://www.oskarellen.com/products/riddarborg/
Dancing Cat & Mouse in a Shoebox
This stunning vintage-style shoebox comes complete with a wardrobe, dressing table, a mirror, tiny hangers and gold cushions. Your little one can style the sweet little ballerina cat and mini mouse in their removable tutus which are also included.
http://www.bijoulifestyle.co.uk/mailed-dancing-cat-mouse-shoebox
Fabric Apple House
Play with six plush woodland creatures as they skip in and out of this whimsical, two-story, fabric apple-tree house. This adorable little set zips up into one piece when the animals are “sleeping.” Your children’s imagination will run wild with this woodland scene!
http://www.magiccabin.com/fabric-apple-house-with-embroidered-fold-out-mat-and-6-plush-critters.htm
Mermaid Shell house
Dive into the magical world of mermaids with this fabric zip-up seashell, complete with a mermaid girl and her seahorse companion. The mermaid girl features a zip-on fin, allowing her to transform from mermaid to girl in an instant!
http://www.oskarellen.com/products/mermaid-shell-house/
London Bus
This realistic, London city bus is painted bright red and comes with a plush driver figurine, it looks just like the real thing! Allow your little ones to experience some real life magic as they use their imagination to ride around the famous city of London.
http://www.bijoulifestyle.co.uk/le-toy-van/le-toy-van-london-bus
Tea Set
There is no better way to bring your little one’s tea party dreams to life than with this charming woodland creature tin tea set! Enjoy tea and crumpets complete with forest creature illustrations on the 4 serving plates, 4 cups, tea kettle, and serving tray.
http://www.magiccabin.com/forest-friends-tin-tea-set.htm
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It’s the perfect time of year to get extra creative in the kitchen with the holiday season quickly approaching. As the next few weeks go by, chances are your calendar will become filled with holiday parties, potlucks, and festivities.
Here are some excellent potluck ideas inspired by my own international friends who have brought these simple and fun dishes to parties I’ve hosted or attended over the years. I’ve included the name of each friend who inspired the corresponding dish in the titles below.
These wonderful recipes are sure to make you the star of any dinner party!
Pesto and Sun dried Tomato Cheese Spread - Angela
The festive colors of this beautiful dish make it extra perfect for the holidays! Your guests will go crazy over the flavors of this spread, which combine sun-dried tomatoes, goat cheese, and pesto all in one perfect swoop. The best part? It’s simple as can be to make, and it doesn’t require any cooking. Just layer the ingredients in a plastic-wrap-lined dish, refrigerate, and voila! Spreads wonderfully over crackers or bread.
https://www.homemadeinterest.com/delicious-holiday-recipes-pesto-sundried-tomato-cheese-spread/
Chocoflan - Viviana
How about a latin-themed dish to really spice-up (or in this case, sweeten) a party? It doesn’t get more decadent than this flan recipe with a fun chocolate-cake twist! A beautiful moist chocolate bundt cake with a custardy flan top-half, glazed with caramel sauce, and then topped with pecan pieces. Makes a beautiful addition to any table. Provecho!
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/marcela-valladolid/chocoflan-recipe-1949457
Pumpkin Banitza - Aneliya
These mouth-watering cinnamon and pumpkin-filled phyllo rolls make the perfect dessert for any dinner party. This pastry recipe is quite simple: just unroll the phyllo-dough, layer, spread the pumpkin filling, roll-up and bake! Best served with coffee or tea.
https://www.thespruce.com/bulgarian-sweet-pumpkin-banitza-recipe-1135757
Liberian Jolloff Rice - Petrolina and Deborah Bome
Bring along some truly exotic flare to your dinner party with this West African favorite. Jollof Rice is a fun and delicious spin on normal rice. The rice is fried in tomato paste, and then boiled in coconut milk with a bunch of spices. This flavorful side dish makes a great addition to any meal!
https://recipesfromapantry.com/jollof-rice/
Cheesy Hot Crab Dip - Nancy
Creamy and decadent with a dash of zest, this cheesy, hot crab-dip will become one of your potluck “go-to’s.” It’s simple to make. Just mix all of the ingredients together in a single baking dish, and pop it in the oven until the cheese on-top starts to brown. All crab-lovers will go wild over this dish!
http://www.geniuskitchen.com/recipe/awesome-cheesy-hot-crab-dip-113419
Egg Rolls - Tin
These crunchy and delicious vietnamese egg rolls make the perfect appetizer for any dinner party! The best part about this recipe is that it gives you three different options for the filling depending on what you’re feeling: chicken & shrimp, shrimp only, or tofu! The filling includes a good variety of veggies, so it’s a great way to sneak some vegetables into your day.
https://www.thelittlekitchen.net/vietnamese-egg-rolls-recipe/
Baklava - Summa
Who doesn’t go crazy over baklava? People typically assume that baklava is too complex to make at home, but this recipe keeps it easy and do-able. Simply layer the buttered phyllo sheets with the nut mixture, bake until golden brown, and see how long it takes before every piece is gone!
https://natashaskitchen.com/2014/12/21/baklava-recipe/
Spanakopita Pie - Tasia
This classic, famous dish is made easy and delicious every time with this recipe. It’s so beautiful that your guests won’t believe it’s homemade! A flaky pie crust stuffed with spinach, spices, and salty crumbled feta cheese- what isn’t there to love!
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/cat-cora/spanakopitagreek-spinach-pie-recipe-1941101
French Almond Cake - Brandi
Powder-sugar dusted, almond-slice topped French almond cake makes the perfect centerpiece for any dinner party or potluck. Your guests will love this classy and delicious dessert. This moist cake can be made using just one bowl for easy clean-up!
https://thecafesucrefarine.com/french-almond-cake/
Indian Bhel Puri - Salma Auntie
Introduce your guests to one of Mumbai’s most beloved street foods: behl puri. Bhel puri is described as a crispy, soft, sweet, tangy, spicy mixture of many edibles. This recipe is as simple as chopping up the ingredients and adding them into the bowl one after another, the link even shows a step-by-step guide with photos to make it extra simple!
http://www.vegrecipesofindia.com/bhel-puri-mumbai-bhel-puri/
Enchiladas Suizas - Gretel
The complex mixture of textures and flavors of Mexican dishes are loved by so many. This delicious chicken enchiladas recipe is a perfect savory and flavorful main dish to bring to any party. You can even double or triple the recipe depending on how many guests will be present.
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/marcela-valladolid/enchiladas-suizas-2666247
Spanish Pan con tomato - Leonar
This simple, yet tasty 5-ingredient tapas recipe makes the perfect appetizer, and can be paired with pretty much anything. Pieces of crusty, toasted ciabatta bread are smothered in a freshly-grated tomato spread and then drizzled with olive oil and sea-salt. Each piece is more addictive than the last!
http://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2015/09/pan-con-tomate-tomato-bread-spanish-recipe.html
Euro Steamed Artichokes - Aunt Beverly
Artichokes never tasted so good before! If you aren’t a fan of artichokes, this is your chance to give them a second try to see why they’re loved by so many! This recipe pairs steamed artichokes with a creamy, zesty lemon garlic aioli. Serve this appetizer with a glass of white wine and everyone will be happy!
https://www.tasteslovely.com/steamed-artichokes-lemon-garlic-aioli/
Indian Tandoori Chicken Wings - Tania
Chicken wings are a great dish to bring to any party because everybody loves them! There are so many different ways to prepare wings, but these baked tandoori chicken wings are one of my favorites. They’re seasoned with Indian spices and marinated in a yogurt sauce that makes them extra special! Perfect for any type of party, and can be eaten as an appetizer or as included in the main meal.
https://marlameridith.com/baked-tandoori-chicken-wings-recipe/
Mom's Russian Chicken Salad
This chicken salad recipe is a lot different than the American versions of chicken salad that you might be used to. You’re in for a treat with this traditional Slavic favorite! It’s also healthy, as the main ingredients are vegetables, chicken, and boiled eggs. This recipe includes a few shortcuts making it quick and easy to prepare.
https://natashaskitchen.com/2015/07/17/chicken-olivye-chicken-potato-salad/
]]>I can’t believe that you are starting kindergarten!
I remember the day you were born like yesterday, just a tiny little blessing in my arms. You blossomed into a walking, talking toddler before I knew it-- your magnificent brown-eyes blinking curiously about the colorful world around you.
Today, at five years old, you are already so independent. My ever-sassy, superbly confident, playful social-butterfly. You treat others with such compassion and it amazes me how well you understand empathy at such a young age.
You are starting kindergarten at a new school, a school that works passionately towards the enrichment of girls’ lives! This will be a big change for all of us, but I promise that it will be positive and empowering one. Your father and I are so proud of you for taking this next step!
From naps, snack time, and ending school-days early at pre-school, you will be presented with a long day of learning exciting new subjects, like science, math, and arts. Your love for learning will take you far in this life, my curly-haired girl!
You will have a new teacher, and you will make new friends. I was so delighted the other day when you reminded me how much you love to make new friends. I am certain that you will create new, beautiful friendships in no-time, your sweetness is contagious.
There will be days that you will come home feeling tired, let-down, angry, and even hurt sometimes. And that is perfectly natural, I will be here waiting for you on those days with arms wide open, to remind you that everything is going to be okay.
Other days you will come home feeling happy, inspired, and excited from the day’s events. I hope these good days will remind you that the difficult ones are temporary, that you will start to see how time heals and become resilient.
I’m filled to the brim with gratitude for all the joy you’ve brought into my life. For the unconditional love, endless hugs and cuddles. For all of the fun times we've created together, with many more to come.
I cherish every bedtime story, cooking blueberry pancakes together for breakfast, and afternoons spent painting and playing with play-doh. You enliven the playful side of me and teach me to see the world with fresh eyes.
As you take your first independent steps into the world, starting on this new journey, I hope you’ll always remember to laugh with your whole heart, to cry when you need to, to speak the truth even when it is hard, to always be yourself, and to always, always remember that no matter what, I am here for you.
As hard as this transition might be for me, and as tight as I might want to hold on to you, I have to let you go out into the world, I know you will shine so brightly, my baby girl!
For parents who value the importance of raising culturally aware children, the goal is to provide young ones with the skills and an open mind to grow into the most wholesome versions of themselves. Encouraging cultural sensitivity, empathy and embracing differences are the keys to building a solid, culturally aware foundation from which to explore the world.
My personal journey of learning the value of cultural awareness and oneness began as a young child.
As the daughter of an East Indian father and a Spanish-American mother, I often felt unsure of where I fit in. It wasn’t until later on in life, when I began working in a diverse creative community, that I began to feel a sense of belonging.
Furthermore, my love of travel took me to many different parts of the world, and through these travels I developed a new, promising perspective. The wonderfully different cultures with which I was so fascinated were equally fascinated with me. I was shown a glimpse of a world where cultural differences were accepted, respected, and celebrated. What a joyful feeling it was!
Since this awakening, it has been my passion to cultivate these same positive, culturally-derived feelings in others who may not feel as much self-love and acceptance as their own individuality deserves. Particularly upon the birth of my own baby, it became a priority for me to share this joy and inspiration. I find great peace and fulfillment through encouraging my daughter to cherish her unique individuality, and to celebrate the cultural experiences she will encounter throughout her journeys. To remind her that we are all just one facet of a beautiful, giant kaleidoscope. We are exquisitely unique, yet simultaneously, we are all one.
The value of cultural sensitivity is particularly important to observe during these times of Presidential candidate followers and racist messages in the media.
It’s more important than ever to remind our children the importance of equality, tolerance and acceptance amongst one another. Teaching them that we are all worthy of the same respect and love regardless of ethnicity, background or cultural differences is perhaps the most invaluable lesson of all. Remember that your children are more likely to be open to cultural differences if they see that you are, so setting an intent example for them to follow goes a long way.
There are countless ways to raise culturally aware children, and there is no wrong way to do it as long as the intention remains the same. We hope you’ll have fun exploring this list of ideas and spending time together cultivating your cultural awareness!
1. Give the gift of cultural immersion.
Cross borders with your young ones. Let them dive into the waters of an unknown environment. Allow them to be shocked by the excitement of a new culture. Bathe them in the richness of different ways of life. Immersing young ones headfirst into new cultures via travel is undoubtedly one of the greatest ways to teach them the importance of cultural awareness.
If traveling to a foreign country with your children isn’t a possibility for your immediate budget or if it can’t fit into your calendar, it is still completely possible to immerse yourself in new cultures within your home country. Go to colorful and culturally diverse cities, like New York, Chicago or San Francisco if you live in the USA. Still a stretch? Travel locally within your own area when you can. Take your kids to an ethnic grocery store. Or show your support to the courageous immigrants in your town by supporting and shopping at their businesses.
2. Attend cultural kid-friendly festivals.
What better way to engage your children in a cultural experience than to take them to a fun cultural festival. This way they’ll be participating in cross-cultural games, crafts, and storytelling whilst having fun learning. Showing them that new experiences are exciting and rewarding is a great way to open them up to new things early on.
3. Take them to cultural exhibits or museums.
Children’s museums are a great way to crack your child’s view of the world wide open. Interactive and hands-on exhibits at museums educate children on the importance of cultural awareness in a fun and engaged educational environment. Many museums offer multicultural programs that you can experience with the entire family.
4. Try different foods and teach them the origins.
Use Pinterest to search fun, exotic recipes that are kid-friendly. Invite your children to help you prepare the dishes while you discuss the origin of the food that you are preparing. Perhaps even make it a new tradition in your family that once per week you prepare a new dish together from around the world. If you don’t have time to cook, immerse yourselves anyway by visiting foreign food restaurants in your area. Gently encourage your kids to step outside of their comfort zones and to try something particularly interesting on the menu.
5. Practice a new language together.
Knowing more than one language is one of the most invaluable skills out there. Giving your children the gift of language will not only open up their world, but it will allow them more opportunity to succeed later in life. The younger that children are exposed to a second language, the better.
Put foreign language cartoons on the television for your ultra little ones, young brains are designed to soak up a multitude of languages. For older children and teenagers, watch foreign films with english subtitles, download language learning programs, and play foreign language learning games together. Not only does learning a second language have a myriad of benefits on the mental and intellectual capabilities of your child, but it also helps them grasp an understanding of an entirely new culture.
6. Read children’s books that feature landmarks in international countries.
Dive into books with your children that explore ways of life in different countries and educate them on the variety of cultural customs, landmarks and traditions around the world. Make it a habit to visit your local library together a few times per month to acquire a stack of reading material. What a great way to connect with them whilst learning something new together.
7. Learn about how other cultures celebrate holidays.
Change up your routine and learn about how different countries celebrate holidays. Gather books from your library to read together on foreign holidays. Learn about the history of each tradition. Spin a dreidel and light the candles on a Menorah together. Set up a pinata for Cinco de Mayo. Or explore all of the different ways Christmas is celebrated around the world.
8. Throw parties for your kids based on different countries—Passport to Paris?
I knew a teacher once who organized “Passport” parties for her classroom at the end of each month. For instance, they “traveled” to France, Mexico, China, Australia and beyond. Each party was an cumulation of all things related to the country they were “visiting.” They would eat the foods of each country, learn about the animals there, play games and talk about the language that was spoken there, without ever leaving the classroom! What better way to allow a child’s imagination to run wild whilst educating them on a brand new culture? You can do variations of this idea within your own home—think rainy days and birthday parties.
9. Make crafts from around the world,
Get your kids’ creative juices flowing by proposing that you make cultural art projects together. Henna hand tattoos, crafting Japanese lanterns and Indian pasta mandalas are fun ideas for anytime. The creative possibilities are endless, just turn to Google or Pinterest for more inspiration on specific craft ideas!
10. Maintain a “people are people” philosophy through communication.
Portray the importance of respect, acceptance and tolerance amongst one another simply by talking openly with your children about it. Interact with people from different cultures around your kids so that they are comfortable doing the same. Show them that it is important to treat everyone with equal kindness and respect and encourage them to embrace the differences they come across. Communicate about the importance of empathy and remind them that we are all just slightly different shades of the same color!
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Travel forces us to slow down, to break out of our routines, and to reconnect with ourselves, our loved ones, and the world around us all at once. So why sacrifice travel experiences that enrich our well-being during parenthood if there is no real need to? Balancing a career, a family, and travel is not only possible, but it’s a priority to those who realize that all it takes is a bit of courage and a leap of faith.
The apprehension of traveling with young ones is enough to put the dreams and passions of many parents on hold. As with many things in life though, the apprehension of situations tends to be a lot more extreme than the actual outcome. Many parents are pushing past the voice of apprehension to discover fulfillment and a myriad of benefits on the other side. They’re discovering that the world of family travel is not actually so scary or confusing to navigate after all. Flying half-way across the world with young ones does sound quite intimidating, but that’s nothing that a stack of coloring books, some games, a bag of snacks, or apps for kids can’t fix. Plus once you’ve arrived in your new destination, the plane ride is behind you, and the stimulation of being surrounded by an entirely new culture is exciting and totally worth the long haul. Parents can pack an umbrella stroller to make the walking and sight-seeing easier on the little ones, especially while exploring pedestrian cities. For road-trips, or in locations that require car transportation, parents can pack a lightweight convertible car seat.
Children adapt to new surroundings and environments incredibly well, arguably even more-so than adults. Their brains are like little sponges, soaking up all sorts of stimuli at each given moment. Being exposed to foreign languages at a young age has been scientifically proven to have remarkable benefits. The more cultures and contrasting surroundings children are exposed to during their early stages of development, the more open-minded they will be for the rest of their lives. Being exposed to different ways of life will also teach them tolerance, acceptance, resilience, confidence, and the value of trying new things.
Traveling with our young ones forces us to slow down and to reconnect with the wonders of the world around us. It allows us to cherish the simple things, like the feeling of sand between our toes, or watching in silence as the sun sets the entire sky ablaze before slowly sinking into the horizon. I encourage you to hit the road with your children, to expand your horizons with the ones you love the most, even if it scares you. I’ve yet to meet anyone who regrets taking a step outside of their comfort zones to accomplish their goals and dreams!