The Importance of Cultural Sensitivity: How to Raise a Global Thinker - April 2025

Humans have evolved on various continents over thousands of years in various tribes, communities and civilisations. We have formed cities and nations, and created cultures from our collective ways of life. Cultures that continue to change as the world becomes more and more accustomed to different ideas, opinions and beliefs. And yet there is still much division and conflict among peoples. But no matter what our skin colour may be, we are all human beings who share a planet together. And that is a priceless lesson to teach our kids. This brings us to the topic of cultural sensitivity. If people are more aware and accepting of other people's differences, then maybe there would less turmoil in the world. After all, isn't it the wish of every parent for their future generations and descendants to grow up in paradise free of war and hatred? Where everyone loves and respects one another regardless of their way of life? If that is so, then perhaps teaching our kids a little more about cultural sensitivity may just ensure this bright future for many years to come. Cultural Sensitivity: The Remedy for a Divided World Cultural sensitivity is the understanding, acknowledgement and acceptance of different and similar cultures without judgement or bias. And without assigning value such as good or bad, better or worse, etc. Sounds easy, right? Perhaps not. When people talk about culture they will often mention the superficial elements: language, tradition, cuisine, fashion, rituals, etc. But there is so much more to culture like religion, rule of law, power distance, gender equality, human rights and family dynamics. It can be hard to deny that some nations practice supremacist, misogynistic, xenophobic, homophobic cultures. It can be harder to expose a child to that. There are also countries that practice oppressive and authoritarian regimes that can often be cruel and unjust. But perhaps there is still a way for you to turn these examples into a teachable moment. No child is born out of the womb as racists and xenophobes. They are not born with the instinct to hate and fear 'The Others'. Chances are high any prejudice that you may have as an adult are a result of upbringing and societal influence that you experienced when you were young. However, parents are slowly starting to recognise and rectify their internal racism and bigotry, if any. But while it can be hard for an adult to un-learn their upbringing, this doesn't mean we can't raise our kids to be better. How to Raise a Global Thinker Expose Your Kids to Various Cultures The quickest and easiest way to instil cultural sensitivity in your kids is to expose them to some positive media portrayal of other societies and cultures. Not just local ones but international ones as well. This can include tv shows, movies, novels, magazines, and of course books. Here's a list of the best children's books about inclusivity and gender identity that you should definitely buy for your kids. Any intellectual material that can help them learn a few things about not just the culture of other nations and societies, but their struggles and issues as well. Certain media are easier and faster to consume than others. Textual or reading material may require an older child with a higher thinking capacity than a younger one who may enjoy cartoons more. So, adjust your learning tools accordingly. Avoid the 'Black and White' Argument Nothing in this world is truly black and white, or good and evil. This is simply the truth that comes with learning about life. Many of us may be accustomed to seeing our own beliefs and as the 'right' one or the true one. But this is also why we have extremists and supremacists organisations. So, when exploring other points of view that is not our own, it's easy to fall into the trap of 'We're better than them'. Instead, point out the problems that those nations are experiences and what's causing them. Try to be as impartial as you can when informing your kids about hate crimes, oppressive laws and political conflicts. But again, promote positive values and renounce negative ones. If you were to highlight the good and bad of a culture, make sure it's balanced. Each con must be accompanied by a pro. Ask for Their Feedback It's not enough to simply show your child to other cultures. You also need to get their juices flowing, really probe their critical thinking. Especially if they're old enough to form their own original thoughts. One not coloured by their prejudices. Get your child to form their own arguments and opinions about controversial topics regarding culture, even their own. Ask questions that start deep and meaningful conversations about ethnicity and religion and custom. While it's important to give your child freedom in what they belief, it's of course not wrong to point them in the wrong direction. Racism, for instance, is quite rife in many countries and should be discouraged in the home. Many Leaves, One Tree There is not one person on the planet that is quite like the next. Even if they do belong to the same race, religion or country. But as diverse and as separated as we are geographically and ethnically, we can all trace our origin back to a single ancestor—the biological 'Adam' of our species. And it can be both beautiful and mind-boggling to contemplate on how vast and old the human race is. But it's also tragic that we've survived a millennia of just for it to be undone by bigotry, intolerance and prejudice. After all, most, if not all, wars start out the same way: ignorance. While many cultures in the world may be problematic, it's important not to impose our own beliefs on others. Because the best way to promote positive cultural values isn't through shame or intimidation. It's through understanding and acceptance. And if more of our younger generation embrace each other for their differences, we are on our way to brighter, more tolerant future sooner than we realise. Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner. For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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