Preserving Your Child's Heritage
Barbara Blackwell, Kid’s Culture Center

Whether your child is of Asian, Hispanic or European decent it is important to teach them about their country of birth. Knowledge of their birth country and its people, customs and traditions, helps to develop pride in and a connection to that country. It also enhances self-esteem and provides a sense of “roots”.

What can a parent do? Incorporate your child’s birth culture or country in a positive way into every day life: read books about it; have cultural artifacts in your home; participate in events that celebrate that culture.

Seek out cultural activities for your child that will appeal to her age and temperament: books, dance, sports, culture camps or music.

Ensure that your child sees role models from his culture to underscore that people from that culture make important contributions to the world. Read books by famous authors; point out famous scientists, athletes and world leaders from his or her country.

Barbara Blackwell is the adoptive mother of two children from Russia. She is the owner of KidsCultureCenter.com, 'virtual' culture camp for the families of international adoption.