CHAPPY CHAT – Harmony Week

Being part of many cultures can get complicated at times. Children may find there are differences in values and expectations. Sometimes there might be difficult choices. When different sets of expectations don’t match, it can make it hard for children to feel like they belong. When cultural differences are respected and a sense of belonging develops, there are many benefits to mental health and wellbeing for children, families and schools. By working together, schools and families can help children from all cultural backgrounds to understand, respect and appreciate diversity in others. Helping children to understand difference encourages them to feel good about themselves, understand where they fi t in the world, and appreciate diversity in others. When adults behave in ways that are open and accepting it can help to teach children to respect diversity and embrace individual differences. Everybody needs to feel accepted, respected and included. Feeling welcome and at home in both cultures is very important for positive mental health and wellbeing. Australia is home to people from many different cultural backgrounds. Creating a positive sense of community for everyone involves learning to understand and appreciate others’ values, experiences and beliefs so that together we can build a caring and accepting society that supports mental health and wellbeing.

Parenting is rarely easy. Being a parent in a new country has added challenges. Just as it can be difficult for children to learn to be part of two cultures, learning to parent ‘between’ cultures can be stressful for families too. Being open to adapt your parenting to suit your child’s individual needs, and your own, can be beneficial for all families.

What can you do as a parent/carer?

Tell your children stories to help them to develop a strong cultural identity and share a sense of pride in your culture. Talk to children about the Australian cultural values you appreciate. This will help them see how they can be part of both cultures.

Seek support and advice from people you trust. Talking with relatives and friends who understand your values can help you think through the different problems you might face as a parent.

You can contact your child’s school if you have any questions about your child or their education. Schools welcome questions from parents and carers.  

Take an active interest in activities at your child’s school. Get to know your child’s teacher and look for ways to get involved at school, for example, by helping in the classroom or by joining parent working groups.

If children complain of being teased or bullied, be sure to tell your child’s teacher so the school can take action to stop it.

Just before I go.....With the recent tragic events that have occurred in New Zealand, there might be questions your children are asking.  Below is an article that may be of interest to you on how to talk to our kids about world trauma.