It is all in the details.
You are a mom or dad. You send your kid to school everyday.
Most likely you have a fairly international group of kids in your kid’s class.
How do you teach your kid not to be a jerk when it comes to other cultures?
It starts at home.
Documentaries are boring
My kid complains every time I turn on one of these.
But, ask her about topics ranging from food in South Korea to travel in Mumbai and she most likely will be able to have a conversation with you.
That is if she is not bored.
I love documentaries. Or food and travel shows.
Anthony Bourdain’s, Parts Unknown – a particular favorite.
I also watch, Raja, Rasoi aur Anya Kahaniyaan – which is in the Hindi language. The delicious mouth watering food set in some exotic locales is brilliantly done.
These shows not only showcase the particular cuisine of a culture but also illustrates the way the food is eaten.
An American kid watching will then understand that not everyone eats with a fork and knife and that steak is forbidden in some countries.
And an international kid watching Guy Fieri’s Flavortown will develop a healthy appreciation for the burger.
So, go ahead and scroll through that Netflix genre list. And pick on a show out of your comfort zone. You can binge watch your favorite later.
I have to say though that my kid loves The Great British Baking Show. To my relief and delight, because we get to sample her trial recipes. It is a win-win for all.
Global Design is My Vice
Confession time: Pet peeve is watching home stagers fix American homes with the same old bland palette. French Country or cottage chic meets insipid grey.
How about watching a fabulous show such as Grand Designs? Or Amazing Interiors?
I will admit I am a bit of a interior design junkie. I grew up stomping around construction sites. You can blame my mom.
Architectural Digest was a staple read at home. Taught me many lessons in curating art and furniture that was unique.
Encourage the Odd
So, if your kid or partner has odd tastes. Accommodate it. Encourage it even.
Do you know how many manga drawings have graced my home, while my kid went through that phase?
They were cultural lessons in Japanese comic styles.
Or the Bento box? Who knew they would become popular?
Go on and try those too. And then let me know.
Comment or subscriptions to my mad writing encouraged.
I can therefore spend hours scouring flea markets, yard sales and listings for that elusive piece of furniture that does not look like a big box store brand.
Try it. You will get addicted to the thrill of the hunt.
And take your kid along.
Warning: Thrift shopping for furniture and findings can be a vice.
