Foundations for positive self esteem start by knowing who you are and where you come from. Children who are adopted into families that are not of the same cultural heritage may not always have those answers. As your child’s biggest advocate, you want to foster a positive self image by helping your child learn about her roots and by celebrating and embracing her cultural heritage.

Steps:

1. Help your child learn about her heritage by researching topics of interest together. Continue to educate your child about her heritage as she grows and matures

Have a conversation with your child about what heritage is and how important it is to celebrate her cultural roots. Together, choose some topics to explore that interest both you and your child (i.e., history, arts, language, cooking, etc.). Don’t choose a topic just because you think you “"should:" rather, choose topics that you have a genuine interest in and encourage your child to do the same. Your curiosity and enthusiasm will be contagious and your child will likely follow your lead.

There are several ways to learn about a particular culture. You can learn some interesting facts about your child’s heritage by checking with your local library or bookstore to see what books and journals they have on your child’s birth country or state.

There are many ways you and your child can also learn by experience: visit relevant museum exhibits, take a language course or explore some authentic cooking. You can incorporate some of what you learn into your daily lives.

2. Take an international homeland tour or a domestic tour.

Take a tour of your child’s birth country. Many adoption agencies offer homeland tours that give your child the opportunity to explore and learn about her birth country.

While on an international homeland tour you can visit historical landmarks, take guided tours, try regional foods, explore architecture and even check out local arts. Be sure to help your child document your trip through pictures, video, and/or journals.

You may have the opportunity to visit the orphanage your child was in or visit with foster families. If you plan to visit the orphanage or meet foster families, you should attempt to make those arrangements through your local adoption agency ahead of time.

3. Send your child to a culture camp.

Day and overnight culture camps can be a positive experience for children looking to learn more about their heritage. Culture camps give children the opportunity to meet other boys and girls from similar backgrounds as well as the chance to explore their heritage under the guidance of professionals. Games and educational activities are structured around the children’s ages and maturity levels. Children can learn about several cultural topics such as history, language, food and more. Research culture camps to find the best fit for your child.

Culture camps are not just for kids. There are some culture camps that are for both children and their parents. If you are interested in sharing in the experience, one of these culture camps may be for you.

4. Join other multicultural families in a support or play group. Introduce your child to other children (or adult role models) who are of the same ethnic background or have a connection to his or her birth country or city.

There are numerous multicultural support groups and playgroups across the country. These tgroups can be a great way for your child to meet others who share a piece of her history.

Reaching out to friend or family member who has some connection to your child’s birth culture can also be enlightening. Whether it is someone who has had experience living in your child’s birth country or region, or it is someone of the same ethnic background, their insight may be helpful to you and your child.

Tips:

• As your child grows and develops, comfort levels with learning about her cultural heritage may fluctuate. In some instances, your child may become more curious, but in other instances what was once interesting and educating may become intimidating and frustrating. Take cues from your child as to what to focus on and when.



• You can also celebrate your child’s heritage in the literal sense, by celebrating holidays, customs, and traditions that are a part of her birth culture. Have your child share with you what she would like to celebrate and support her in those efforts.

Author: Mandy Starr
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