As parents and caregivers, it can be challenging to raise a child who is proud of their identity and knows where they come from. Cultural traditions are a powerful tool that can help kids build their identity and grow into confident and proud individuals. Here, we discuss why incorporating cultural traditions is not just a way for kids to have fun, but an essential aspect of their identity development.

Culture Connects Kids to Their Family History 📜

Cultural traditions are an essential way of connecting kids to their family history. They foster a sense of belonging and make kids feel grounded in their roots. By introducing kids to ancestral traditions, parents encourage the continuation of family customs and values from generation to generation.

For example, if you’re a Filipino parent or caregiver, teaching your child how to make adobo (a common traditional Filipino dish) can help kids understand the importance of food in Filipino culture. It can also connect them emotionally to their Filipino ancestors, even if they have never set foot in the Philippines. Ultimately, sharing traditions can help kids understand where they come from and who their family is, helping them build a stronger sense of identity.

A child cooking with their grandparent

Cultural Traditions Teach Kids Values and Beliefs 📚

Cultural traditions are a way of teaching kids the values and beliefs of their cultural identity. Different cultural practices can teach kids to respect elders, take care of their communities, and appreciate the natural world around them. Learning about their customs can help kids understand their role in society and can offer them an opportunity to become more empathetic, responsible, and compassionate individuals.

One tradition that teaches values and beliefs is the Hindu festival of Diwali. Diwali is a time to celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance. During this celebration, families light diyas (oil lamps), eat sweets, and exchange gifts, learning the importance of kindness and togetherness. These teaching moments can help children navigate real-life situations and make decisions more confidently.

A Hindu family lighting Diyas during Diwali

Cultural Traditions Encourage Self-Expression 🎭

Cultural traditions are a way of expressing oneself and celebrating the uniqueness of one’s identity. By incorporating different cultural practices into their lives, kids can explore their identity and find new ways of expressing themselves. Being exposed to various traditions can also help kids find new aspects of themselves and feel proud of who they are.

For example, if a child is interested in martial arts, learning about the origins and history of karate – a Japanese martial art - can provide a unique opportunity for the child to learn more about Japanese culture while also exploring their passion for martial arts

A child practicing Karate with a group of other children

Cultural Traditions Foster a Sense of Belonging and Community 🤝

Cultural traditions offer a unique sense of community and belonging. By participating in cultural festivals and events, kids can connect with others and feel a sense of camaraderie. It can also provide a sense of safety and support, especially for kids who feel different from their peers.

For example, during the Indian festival of Holi – a celebration of love, color and brotherhood - people gather to throw colored powder at one another, dance, sing, and feast. It provides a sense of joy, love, and community, helping people connect to their peers.

A group of children throwing colored powder at each other during Holi

Final Thoughts 🤔

Cultural traditions are an essential aspect of a child’s identity development. They teach kids about their family history, values, and beliefs while also encouraging self-expression and fostering a sense of community and belonging. When parents and caregivers incorporate these traditions into their kids’ lives, they help their kids build a sense of identity and become proud and confident individuals.

So next time, when your child wonders about the stories and histories of your culture, engage them, tell them the stories and do something traditionally cultural with them. Trust us, it will be worth it!

Children around the world holding hands in unity