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Diversity Affairs Feature

International Multicultural Communications Month

Ring in Spring - from Favardin to El Dia de Los Ninos

Five fun and easy ways to incorporate multicultural activities into your family.

If multicultural communication seems difficult to you-you are not alone! And as human beings we tend to steer clear of things that we find difficult or uncomfortable. Differences in languages, backgrounds, customs et al may make us feel challenged-as in "how do I do it" and hesitant-as in "how do I do it right." But, you might find that once you start learning about other peoples and traditions you enjoy it. So, give yourself a chance-spring is a great time to begin.

To help you, we have put together some simple ideas that you and your children can enjoy-and will provide all of you with a new understanding and respect for all kinds of people.

Have a picnic
Start off April with a picnic-more than 71 million Iranians do! April first is the 13th day of Persian New Year (Nowruz); Since 13 is considered an unlucky number everyone leaves home for the day to picnic or to go on a fun trip.

Make every day an "Earth Day"
Start with things like using recycled items in your crafting, learn about local recycling programs, let the kids take responsibility for recycling, compost. Since many schools are 'green' you may find that your kids know more about saving the planet than you do. They will love teaching you for a change.

Write a limerick
Limericks were made famous by Edward Lear-who was English-wrote the "Book of Nonsense" in the 1800's. This was an entire book of silly limericks. You can use these little poems as a fun way to incorporate some new ideas.

Here's an example of an 8,8,5,5,8 limerick

There once was a young girl named Rain    

(8 syllables)

Who thought that meanness was a pain

(8 syllables)

Was Earth the right place

(5 syllables)

No matter the race

(5 syllables)

That people be treated the same

(8 Syllables)

Celebrate Native American Culture
The Gathering of Nations Pow Wow brings together more than 600 Native American tribes and nations in a three-day event where participants share, teach and exchange traditions with each other. If you are lucky enough to have Native people in your area, ask to be invited to a gathering and celebrate with them. If not, research and learn some Native American dances and do them with your kids.

Focus on the Future by Celebrating Children
"El Día de los Niños" celebrates children. Many nations throughout the world and especially within the western hemisphere celebrate "Día de los Niños." This day is designed to honor children who represent the hopes and dreams of every community. Anything you do that honors your kids-from a trip to the playground to an ice - cream treat-will do the trick.

Spring is a time of rebirth and renewal. There is no better time to start embracing and teaching children about the people, places and traditions of the world. Not only will this open up the lines of multicultural communication, it is fun.