'Do have cat?' 6 ways to model multicultural appreciation

The best way to instill an appreciation for other cultures and different perspectives is by example.

When an acquaintance spearheading an exchange program at our local Pennsylvania university asked me to host a couple women, I blithely accepted. Numerous trips to Japan growing up, and a half-Okinawan husband (although one hundred percent Americanized!) had instilled in me a love for that culture. My three young daughters needed global influence so nothing could be better—I thought.A few hours later, I wasn't so sure. The two Japanese students had arrived bearing gifts of green tea and origami paper. Neither spoke much English, but seemed eager to acclimate for the time they would live in our home. Yori and Kumiko had unpacked in the room I'd shown them.

Now the door was shut and they hadn't come out for a long time. I heard continuous coughing and nose-blowing. Finally, I knocked.

When the door opened, my heart sank. Yori was huddled on the floor, blowing her nose into a cloth hanky, eyes streaming with tears. Was she so terribly homesick already?

Both girls wore an expression I knew meant they hated to be the cause of embarrassment or disappointment. But upon my concerned inquiry, they huddled over their Japanese-English dictionary and finally found the phrase they needed. Yori looked up with puffy eyes and asked, "Do have cat?"

We did have cat. How the exchange program ever overlooked such important allergy information on their application forms floored me! Yori was quickly transferred to another home, but Kumiko stayed and was dearly loved by our family.

(Our family also hosted a highschooler from Chile for a whole semester, which was more difficult. See #6 below.)

The best way to instill an appreciation for other cultures and different perspectives is by example. You don't have to host an international student to be effective. Here are six ways to model multicultural appreciation.

1. Stock your own diverse bookshelf

   Make sure your bookshelf includes literature from different countries, ethnicities, and historical periods. With a variety of choices, your young reader will be encouraged to explore diverse stories.

2. Engage in book discussions Initiate conversations about the books you're reading, especially those with multicultural elements. Share your own insights, ask open-ended questions, and encourage your child to express their thoughts. Model active engagement with literature. Demonstrate that reading isn't just about consuming content but also about appreciating different perspectives!

3. Attend cultural events and book fairs

   Take your child to cultural events, book fairs, or library programs that highlight stories beyond your locality. Attend author talks, cultural celebrations, or events that focus on promoting multicultural books.

4. Explore multicultural media together Explore other forms of media that showcase diverse cultures. Watch movies, documentaries, or TV shows that highlight stories from around the world. Discuss the themes, characters, and cultural aspects depicted.

5. Host a missionary, missionary family, immigrant, or international worker Welcome those who’ve experienced the trials and delights of living outside their passport country into your home or classroom. (If they can bring kids your child's age, even better!) Invite them to share their stories, photos, memorabilia, etc. Ask if they'll bring items to show or even wear a different national costume.

6. Host a foreign exchange student Many high schools and universities run exchange programs. It’s not for everyone, and it’s a big commitment, so do your research! But taking on a guest from another culture can be both rewarding and memorable.